Longport is taking steps towards introducing a smoking ban that would prohibit cigarettes and cigars on public parks, buildings, and beaches.

If approved, beachgoers don't have to worry about secondhand smoke but smokers have to find a place to smoke elsewhere, which could be inconvenient.

Shore News Today reports the Board of Commissioners introduced the ordinance on February 22. The hope is that the ban would prevent children from being exposed to secondhand smoke, and being tempted to experiment with cigarettes.

Borough Solicitor Pacifico "Pat" Agnelli tells Shore News Today, “We cannot tell someone they cannot smoke because it’s bad for their health, but second-hand smoke is an issue for others.”

If this ordinance goes through, violators can face fines up to $1,000. A public hearing for the ordinance will take place on March 22 at 4:30 pm.

Read the full story from Shore News Today.

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