56°
LARCHMONT, N.Y. -- Chris Rayner takes the Metro North train to and from work every day and is glad that New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a law Monday to prohibit smoking on MTA-operated platforms.
"I don't smoke and I have two daughters, so I would say it's a good thing," Rayner said. "It's well documented that second-hand smoke is pretty harmful."
The New York State Department of Health estimates that second-hand smoke kills 2,500 New Yorkers every year, according to a press release announcing the ban, which will take effect in 90 days. The law also includes the Long Island Rail Road.
"It is important that commuters are not unwillingly subject to the dangers of second-hand smoke while waiting on train platforms," Cuomo said. "Exposure to second-hand smoke can lead to serious health problems for non-smokers and this law will make outdoor MTA train platforms, ticketing and boarding areas a cleaner, healthier place for all commuters."
Smoking is already prohibited on all New York City subway platforms and this law extends protections to LIRR and Metro-North stations.
"People don't choose to second-hand smoke, but are forced to inhale it anyway," Rayner said. "This bill is the right move."
How do you feel about the smoking ban on the Metro-North? Comment below, or joing the conversation on Facebook and Twitter.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Mamaroneck and receive free news updates.
