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Pelham Riders React to Platform Smoking Ban

PELHAM, N.Y. – Riders at the Pelham Metro-North station will no longer be able to smoke on the platforms while they wait for their trains. Some passengers say they are pleased with new legislation that eliminates second-hand smoke at the platform.

Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a law Monday that banned smoking on MTA operated train ticketing, boarding or platform areas on both the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North. The law will go into effect 90 days after its passage.

Yvette Wynn lives in the Fleetwood area of Mount Vernon and often makes use of the Pelham train station. Wynn said the law will make the train riding experience more enjoyable.

"It makes it a more pleasant environment," Wynn said. "I'm glad that they finally did it."

Smoking had already been banned on outdoor subway platforms in New York City and in indoor mass transportation areas. The governor cited the dangers of second-hand smoke as a reason for the law.

"It is important that commuters are not unwillingly subject to the dangers of second-hand smoke while waiting on train platforms," Cuomo said in a press release.

The New York State Department of Health estimates that second-hand smoke claims the lives of 2,500 New Yorkers each year, according to the press release.

Wynn echoed the governor's sentiments. She said the law shows that smoking on train platforms was an issue, and she hopes that people will abide by the new law.

"It's nice to have the acknowledgement that there's reason for concern," Wynn said.

What do you think of the smoking ban? Is it long overdue, or do you think people should be allowed to smoke on the platforms? Comment below, on our Facebook page or on Twitter @DailyPelham.

Contact Pelham reporter Andrew Meola at ameola@thedailypelham.com.

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