It looks like the smoke ban might take affect in all of New Jersey and I am stoked! (How do you like that beach talk?) 

What ultimately won the panel over? The fact that over 29,000 cigarette butts were left behind by beachgoers last year in New Jersey -- um ew!

If this legislation is signed into law, it will take 6 months to officially be put into affect but this is a huge start.

Two years ago, Gov. Chris Christie signed a smoking ban for all state beaches and state-owned parks -- that only includes two locations in New Jersey so this much needed ban will affect 18 more shore communities.

"New Jersey's beaches are used and enjoyed by millions of people as a prime attraction of the state's tourism industry," said Senate President Stephen Sweeney.. Vin Gopal, D-Monmouth. "Beachgoers should not be assaulted by second-hand cigarette smoke and the sand and water should not be littered with cigarette butts."

If you DO choose to violate this new rule, you will pay a $250 fine for the first offense, $500 for the second offense, and $1,000 for each following offense. But may I just say, that is a lot of cash to spend just to smoke a few cigarettes on the beach. 

Now, I am beyond happy because this is definitely a step in the right direction for public help and our environment.

However, in case you did not notice, this article only specifically mentions cigarettes. There is a new trend of e-cigarettes and vapes and from what I have read, they will still be allowed.

It may be a different form of smoking, but why on earth should I still have to sit next to you and inhale that stuff? If we are going to do a smoking ban, I think we should ban ALL smoking!

Do you agree?

Check out the original article at NJ.com.

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