SALEM, OR — The state is taking steps to ban smoking on all 362 miles of beaches along the Pacific coast. The move this week by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department follows an earlier ban on smoking at most other state park properties. Chris Havel, OPRD spokesman, said it’s partly a response to concerns that the earlier smoking ban, enacted in February, will push more smokers onto the coastline. The ban would also reduce litter on beaches and ensure consistent rules throughout the state parks system, he said.
The agency is taking public comment on the proposal through August 29th and will hold public meetings to discuss it in Seaside, Newport, Coos Bay and Salem.
Smokers could face a $110 fine, although the agency says it prefers to educate visitors and only issues citations to the most egregious repeat offenders.
If you see local news happen, call the Horizon Broadcasting Group News Tip Hotline at 541-323-NEWS, or email us.
