LA considers banning smoking in crowded areas of city parks
11/28/01
Smoking could be banned in many areas of city parks.
A City Council committee on Tuesday recommended Councilwoman Jan Perry's proposal to ban smoking in areas where large crowds and children gather, such as athletic facilities, large picnic areas and playgrounds.
"This sort of behavior or activity can be a source of litter and pollution. I am also very concerned about role-modeling and causing children to be in situations where they may pick up something and become sick or burned," Perry said.
The measure was aimed specifically at areas where there are large gatherings of people and children, such as athletic events. Smoking would still be allowed in other areas, such as at individual benches and picnic tables.
The council's Arts, Health and Humanities Committee passed the measure with little debate and no public opposition, sending the proposal to the full council for consideration at a later date.
The city has nearly 400 parks spanning 15,500 acres.