The government has just now decided to rule on banning smoking in public housing nationwide. Agencies now have a year and a half to get this going though the ban wont take place until next year. There are currently 200,000 homes which are already currently living under the ban. 178,000 apartments, with over 400,000 residents, owned by the New York City Housing Authority are to be affected.
Smoking is not permitted in the hallways and lobbies of public housing buildings. The ban will oppose smoking inside all together. E-cigarettes, or electronic cigarettes are the only exception. Other than that, people will be banned from smoking cigarettes, cigars, hookahs, and pipes in public housing buildings and within 25 feet of those buildings.
Police will not be enforcing the rule according to housing authorities. The ban is to help reduce second hand smoke. Statistics say second hand smoking would affect people including 760,000 people living in public housing. Housing officials also believe they will be saving house fires caused by “smoke-damaged units.” Julián Castro, the Housing and Urban Development secretary says,
“Public housing will go smoke-free and remain smoke-free, and because of that so many folks are going to live healthier lives and have a better shot at reaching their dreams because they have good health.”
Source: Complex
