Bill > A05976

This bill amends the New York Public Health Law to prohibit the sale of tobacco products and vapor products within 500 feet of any public or private school. The law specifies that the 500-foot distance is to be measured in straight lines from the nearest points of the school's property line to the nearest points of the business's property line. Enforcement of this new restriction will follow existing procedures in section 1399-ff of the public health law, with the additional provision that any person can submit a complaint to an enforcement officer if they believe a violation has occurred. The bill will go into effect 180 days after it becomes law, which provides businesses time to adjust to the new geographical sales restrictions. The purpose of the bill appears to be to reduce youth exposure to tobacco and vapor products by creating a buffer zone around educational institutions.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5976