As the summer of 2022 rolls on there are some great things to look forward to. From the concerts to the festivals and fairs, New York State sure has plenty to offer. The weather has been great to get outside and be with friends and family. But the next time you go outside in The Empire State, you may breathe more fresh air than before.

Over the weekend, New York Governor, Kathy Hochul, signed in to law a new ban on smoking that is one step forward to a more cigarette free state.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation prohibiting smoking at state-owned beaches, boardwalks, marinas, playgrounds, recreation centers, and group camps. Smoking in those areas will be punishable with a $50 fine.

This comes as we are all getting together again after two long years of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. It sure is great to see the smiling faces with no masks and be able to do the things we love in the summer and now not have to worry about second hand smoke in outdoor places. I am a former smoker and although I believe people should have the right to smoke if they want to, I also think it is nice not to have to smell and breath in smoke when I am trying to get fresh air or hang out with the family in a park or on a beach.