The city of Portland has expanded its smoking ban to all of its public parks, making the rule consistent across all parks in the city. Previously, smoking was only prohibited in certain parks under the city’s purview. City officials say the move will promote public health and protect parks from certain hazards, including pollution and fire.
A statement from Commissioner Amanda Fritz read in part:
“The intent of the smoke and tobacco-free parks policy is to promote public health and protect Portland’s parks and natural areas, not to criminalize those who smoke or use tobacco,” Fritz said in a statement. “We expect people to comply with the expanded policy because it’s the right thing to do for our parks and for themselves, not solely because they’re faced with major penalties.”
The new measure, which takes effect July 1, would also make the smoking ban a little less stringent, with violators simply asked to leave the park for the rest of the day if caught lighting up.
Twin Cities Public Health 