Rhode Island city’s downtown smoking ban gets first approval

By Alana Cerrone

acerrone@abc6.com

@Alana_Cerrone

Smoking could soon be illegal in the center of downtown Providence, and both smokers and law enforcement are unhappy about it.

The Providence city council gave first passage to a ban on all tobacco products on Thursday, voting 10-3 in favor of it.

If passed, smoking would be banned in and around Kennedy Plaza, and if anyone is caught smoking, they would get a warning from police. If they’re caught again, they get a $50 fine.

Public Safety Commissioner Steven Pare said the ban would put police in a difficult position and could strain their relationship with the community. He also said it would be difficult to enforce with the department’s resources.

Business owners in the area have pushed the idea, saying it would help improve Kennedy Plaza and its commerce. 

The bill is not law yet. It still needs to be passed a second time and would have the be signed by Mayor Elorza, who has promised  to veto it.

©WLNE-TV / ABC6 2017