Nassau To Ban Marijuana Smoking At All County Parks, Buildings

NASSAU COUNTY, NY — The Nassau County Legislature passed a measure this week that would ban the smoking of marijuana in county parks, and County Executive Laura Curran has already said she intends to sign the bill into law.

The measure, which unanimously passed the 19-member Legislature, bans the smoking and vaping of marijuana products at all county-owned property, including parks, playgrounds, beaches and county buildings.

"This legislation is all about setting the right example for our children," said Legislator Bill Gaylor, a Republican from Lynbrook, who sponsored the legislation. "No one wants to have to smell or be around marijuana at beautiful county park like Grant Park in Hewlett. This bill will help to allow our families and children to continue to enjoy our beautiful county facilities without worry."

Though recreational marijuana is now legal in New York, smoking it is still regulated. Like tobacco products, marijuana is regulated by the Clean Indoor Air Act and cannot be smoked in many indoor public locations, like restaurants, bars, workplaces and transportation.

Curran has said she will sign the legislation when it lands on her desk.

"As a parent, I know we must do everything we can to keep cannabis out of kids’ hands and out of public spaces where minors may be present — including all county parks and facilities," she said. "I look forward to signing this legislation as my No. 1 priority is keeping our children safe. We must ensure the county’s public spaces are suitable and safe for all residents."

Violating the new law would come with a fine of $25, which was set by the state, according to Newsday. The original bill the Legislature passed would have set the fine at $200, but the state rule overrides that.