NY bans smoking in licensed and registered facilities that provide child care services
Press Release, Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Office
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today signed legislation to further protect children from exposure to secondhand smoke. The bill prohibits individuals from smoking in facilities that provide child care services, including private homes.
“The dangers of secondhand smoke are indisputable and we must do everything in our power to protect children from this public health hazard and the life-long misery that comes with it,” Governor Cuomo said. “This measure will bring us one step closer to a strong healthier New York for all.”
This bill (A.397B/S.7522), prohibits smoking in any facility that provides child care services in New York State, including private homes. All facilities required to be licensed or registered for child care services must comply with the smoking ban within 90 days, even when children receiving care are not present.
“Second and third-hand smoke is a detriment the development of our kids, and by working with my colleagues in the Senate and Assembly, we have taken significant steps toward establishing a healthier environment for all,” said Senator Kemp Hannon. “I thank the Governor for taking action and signing this legislation to protect children from second and third-hand smoke in family day care settings.”
“New York is a leader in health advocacy and educating our youth on the dangers of smoking,” said Assembly Member Aileen Gunther. “This latest action furthers these efforts and will help our vulnerable youth grow up in better, safer environments across the state. I thank the Governor for signing this bill into law and increasing protections for the next generation of leaders in the Empire State.”
This action builds on legislation signed by the Governor in August 2015 that prohibits individuals from smoking near schools while after-school programs are in operation, and legislation signed in 2017 that bans the use of electronic cigarettes on all public and private school grounds across the state.
