The City of Miami Commission has approved an ordinance introduced by Commissioner Manolo Reyes that prohibits the consumption of tobacco and cannabis and the use of electric cigarettes in City parks and beaches.

“City beaches and parks are public spaces where residents enjoy time outdoors. Mainly, they are places where parents take their children to enjoy sports activities,” said Reyes. “It would be contradictory to think that we are taking our children and the elderly to places where they will be affected by secondhand smoke that causes such a negative effect on health.”

The ordinance took effect 10 days after the Commission approved it. During this period, notifications were posted in public buildings, parks and beaches to inform the population. Those who don’t comply with the new ordinance could face fines.