Bloomberg May Ban Outdoor Smoking

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg is proposing banning smoking on pedestrian walkways, meaning Times Square as well as parks and beaches would be cigarette-free. Bloomberg said the science was clear on the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, and the parks and recreation chief said the proposal would improve the “health and beauty” of outdoor public spaces. Violators of the ban could have to pay a $50 fine. Several other states and cities, including Los Angeles, have similar rules.