The Newport City Council has banned smoking on all public beaches. The ban also includes Newport’s famous Cliff Walk and other public walkways. It takes effect immediately.
Newport’s Mayor, Jeanne-Marie Nepalitano says the action came after the recent Volvo Ocean Race, which left some beaches littered with cigarette butts.
“We don’t allow alcohol on the beach. So, this is just one more way of maybe making it more family friendly, and cleaning up the environment,” said Nepalitano. “And I think it is very positive, and sends a positive message to our community and to our visitors.”
One city counselor voted against the ban, calling it a violation of civil rights.
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