The City of Schenectady is inviting public comment to consider the adoption of a local law that prohibits the use of tobacco products on city property. Currently, more than 125 local municipalities in New York State have adopted a smoke- or tobacco-free policy for their properties, clearing the air for people to access public buildings without being exposed to secondhand smoke.

The public hearing is scheduled for 7:00 pm Tuesday, October 10 at City HallRoom 209, 105 Jay Street, as part of the regularly scheduled City Council meeting. Arrive a few minutes early to sign up to speak.

The City of Schenectady currently prohibits tobacco use in city parks, a law that was passed in 2012. The proposed law would prohibit tobacco use, including electronic products, within 50 feet of city-owned buildings. You can read the specific provisions of the proposed law here.

If you’re unable to attend the public hearing on the 10th, you can share your opinion with City Council members by emailing the City Clerk, Chuck Thorne.

For more information on the benefits of tobacco-free worksites, visit the Tobacco-Free Worksites page of the CDTFC website.