Daily News: Gov. Cuomo signs bill banning smoking on outdoor train platforms, including LIRR and Metro-North

BY Glenn Blain
DAILY NEWS ALBANY BUREAU

Monday, August 15th 2011 

A new bill signed by Governor Cuomo aims to prevent riders from second-hand smoke.

ALBANY - Outdoor train platforms are going smoke free.

Gov. Cuomo on Monday signed legislation that snuffs out smoking in MTA-operated outdoor train platforms, including those run by the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North.

"It is important that commuters are not unwillingly subject to the dangers of second-hand smoke while waiting on train platforms," Cuomo said.

The new law extends the existing smoking ban on indoor mass transportation areas - including city subway platforms - to include outdoor ticketing, boarding or platform areas of railroad stations operated by the MTA and its subsidiaries.

Cuomo, citing state Health Department statistics, said second-hand smoke kills 2,500 New Yorkers every year.

"Second-hand smoke has been proven to cause serious health problems, including cancer, which is why we need to continue to protect individuals from exposure," said Sen. Charles Fuschillo (R-Nassau County), a sponsor of the legislation.

The law, which takes effect in 90 days, was backed by the American Cancer Society and the American Lung Association.