SARASOTA, Florida – A bill introduced by Florida Senator (R-Sarasota) would allow counties to prohibit cigarette smoking at public beaches and parks in the Sunshine State.

Currently, regulation of smoking is preempted to state and supersedes any municipal or county ordinance.

The bill (SB 670) would change that so counties may further restrict smoking within the boundaries of any public beaches and public parks that they own.

If someone violates a county ordinance banning smoking at a beach or park, they could be punished by a fine not to exceed $500 or by imprisonment in the county jail not to exceed 60 days.

The bill would also ban smoking at state parks.

If passed, the proposed Florida law would take effect on July 1, 2020.

SB 670 is scheduled for a hearing with the Florida Senate Community Affairs Committee on Monday, December 9, 2019.