Tobacco and Marijuana Ban Set for Final Vote

The City Council may ban use of tobacco and marijuana in public buildings, parks and school grounds in the city at its upcoming meeting.

The proposed ordinance (law law) would be intended to, “prohibit tobacco and marijuana use in city parks, public school grounds and any other designated city-owned property.”

The proposal would provide that, “It shall be prohibited at all times, for an individual to use tobacco or marijuana products in any form while in a government building, playground, sports field, public park or school ground.”

The measure was introduced at the Council’s meeting on June 26, 2019. It was referred by the Council to its Consolidated Committee.

That committee voted on August 15th to return the proposal back to the full Council with a favorable recommendation. The Council can now give the proposal its final approval.

The proposal, introduced by Ald. Francisco Santiago (D-5) and Ald. Iris Sanchez (D-3) would allow for, “designated smoking areas within these tobacco-free zones for tobacco use only.”

While the immediate effect would appear to be on tobacco use, the new ordinance would also effect marijuana use if the state does legalize it. A proposal to do so was considered by the state legislature this year, but, as the CT Mirror reported, that proposal was not approved.

City police would be charged with enforcing the new ordinance. The proposal would require that, “A citation issued for a first offense shall be a warning only.” Further violations would carry a $99 fine.

The proposal would require the city to post signs in all places where tobacco and marijuana use would be banned.

The proposed ordinance is on the agenda of the September 11, 2019 Council meeting.