Cities nationwide are considering bans on smoking in select areas downtown, and in Fort Collins, CO, the existing smoking restrictions have been expanded. Smoking is prohibited in Old Town Square, all city-owned or operated facilities, grounds, parks, trails, and natural areas, and most city-approved events and festivals.
Eugene, OR, is also looking to expand current smoking prohibitions near public doorways and in parks to include alleys, plazas, and sidewalks downtown.
Owners of downtown bars and others say the proposed ban represents an overreach by government and would hurt their businesses if customers couldn’t smoke outside while drinking or enjoying social time at an establishment. State law already bans smoking inside businesses open to the public.
Supporters suggest that a ban will improve public health and reduce litter from discarded cigarette butts.
The proposed ban stems from a city council meeting last fall during which city staff presented strategies to deter illegal behavior and create a healthy, welcoming downtown.
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