Smoking at state-owned beaches and parks will be banned under a law approved Friday by Gov. Kathy Hochul. The law will cover beaches, boardwalks, marinas, playgrounds, recreation centers and group camps. It exempts the Adirondack and Catskills parks, as well as parking lots and sidewalks at adjoining areas. The ban will take effect in three months. "Smoking is a dangerous habit that affects not only the smoker but everyone around them, including families and children enjoying our state's great public places," Hochul said. "I'm proud to sign this legislation that will protect New Yorker's health and help reduce litter in public parks and beaches across the state." Local governments in many ar... [Read more]