Representative Carter and Senator Chang Bills Ban Smoking on Public Beaches

LANSING - State Rep. Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit) and state Sen. Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit) introduced legislation today to protect Michigan's beaches and beachgoers by expanding the state's current smoke-free law to prohibit smoking on public beaches. Carter believes his House Bill 4936 will significantly reduce litter on beaches and reduce the risk posed by secondhand smoke.

"Most of us have fond memories of going to the beach during the summer, an unforgettable experience that we'd all like to share with our children in the future," said Carter. "As the Great Lakes State, the pride we have in our beaches and the recreational opportunities they provide come with the duty to preserve them. Not only will this bill protect beach-going families from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, it will protect our beaches and the wildlife that call them home from further pollution."

Chang's Senate Bill 497 mirrors Carter's, with the express intent of banning smoking on public beaches.

"Our public spaces should be a place that all our families can enjoy – so children and their parents don't have to worry about second-hand smoke," said Chang. "Beaches are part of our Pure Michigan – and we should keep them clean and safe for everyone to enjoy."

Michigan's smoke-free law currently bans smoking in all state-owned buildings and most buildings open to the public. Chang's bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Health Policy and Human Services, and Carter's bill was referred to the House Committee on Regulatory Reform.