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ARMONK, N.Y.- While waiting on the platform at the North White Plains train station, Armonk resident Jim Dritz said hes up in the air about Gov. Andrew Cuomos newly signed bill, banning smoking on train platforms in New York State.
Dritz, who quit smoking over 40 years ago, understands why the bill was signed but thinks it may be a step too far.
Theres a certain amount of freedom people should have, Dritz said. Im not excited about it one way or another particularly but I sort of think people ought to be given some choices to what they do if it isnt bothering anybody else. I dont know if on a train platform its going to really bug anybody like it would inside a building.
Dritz is totally for the previous bans that keep smokers from lighting up indoors and he says the new bill is the least of his political concerns.
I understand if theyre in a train car or sitting in a building and somebodys smoking next to you but out in the open air, I dont know, Dritz said. I guess its the least important thing that he [Cuomo] does that I care about. I understand politicians wanting to get involved in those sorts of things but its not a big issue with me.
The bill includes a ban of smoking on all MTA operated train platforms, including Metro North. The ban will take effect in 90 days.
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