New York, Sep 16 (IANS): New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has announced plans to impose a ban on smoking in beaches and parks in the city.
Wednesday's announcement, which follows the city's 2003 ban on smoking in bars and restaurants, has been hailed by health groups.
"The science is clear: prolonged exposure to second-hand smoke - whether you're indoors or out - hurts your health. Today, we're doing something about it," Bloomberg was quoted as saying by Xinhua.
Maine and California have already banned smoking in public parks and beaches.
New York has 14 miles of beaches and about 1,700 parks, playgrounds and recreation facilities.