Smoking Ban Considered At Wrightsville Beach, NC

Smoking bans have sprung up around the country in an effort to cut back on second-hand smoke and keep our nation healthy. South Carolina is among those who have a smoking ban at restaurants and bars, but so far they have yet to introduce a ban on public beaches.

Thanks to a resident-led petition to ban smoking at Wrightsviille Beach, which was approved by the New Hanover County Board of Elections, Wrightsville Beach leaders will be able to either approve the ban or put it to a vote by the town, according to the Winston-Salem Journal.

The ordinance being considered will only ban smoking in the sand, but will not ban it in the rest of the town. So far beachgoers have had different reactions to the proposed ban, with some approving of it, while others are not happy, reports My Fox 8.

Steve Mann of Raleigh, who was smoking on Wrightsville Beach Sunday, told the Journal that he was not excited about the idea. He stated:

“I’d treat it like the alcohol ban. I’d still come, but I wouldn’t be happy about it.”

Others are excited about the ban, however, hoping that it will help keep the beaches safe and clean. Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier promotes safe smoking on the beach with a sign on its garbage can stating:

“Walk your butt to the can to keep our beaches beautiful.”

Dianne Romano, who was found smoking a cigarette on the pier while she watched her children play in the nearby water, told the Winston-Salem Journal that she would support a ban on the beach. She stated:

“I think it would be a great idea. I wish I could give it up. You can’t smoke in restaurants or in bars,” she said. “I enjoy those, and I just wait.”

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