City of Boston Bans Smoking in Public Parks

Andrew V Pontbriand
Activist Post

The Boston Parks and Recreation Commission voted unanimously yesterday to adopt a proposed smoking ban for all City of Boston park properties. The ban was initially proposed by Mayor Thomas M. Menino and then approved on November 20 by members of the Boston City Council.

The amendment to City of Boston Municipal Code, Ordinance 7-4.14, prohibits the smoking of tobacco, marijuana, or any other material on properties controlled by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department.

The measure will be enforceable by the Boston Police Department and Boston Park Rangers and is punishable by a fine of $250 per violation.

According to a letter written by Mayor Menino, “This amendment is necessary to maintain the health and safety of our public parks and ensure that these valuable resources can be enjoyed by all Boston residents.”

The ordinance goes into effect immediately. Prior to enforcement, the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, Boston Police Department, and Boston Public Health Commission will work collaboratively to educate the public about the new rule.

As another draconian law is passed in the historic city of Boston, it is already clear activists will be challenging this matter through civil disobedience. Personally, I will be heading to Boston next week to engage in some horrific smoking on the “public” land.

Andrew Pontbriand is an activist, researcher, radio show host, Contributor at Activist Post, and Founder of The Resistance Journals. Like his Facebook Page here