Smokeless tobacco will be off-limits for players and patrons at New York City sporting events after city officials approved a ban on it at ticketed sporting events on March 22, according to media reports.
The law takes effect immediately after Mayor Bill de Blasio signs the bill, according to an ESPN.com story. The mayor's signature is expected to be a "formality," according to the article.
"Today we're taking tobacco out of baseball in New York City," stated Council Member Corey Johnson in the ESPN.com story. "In New York City we've seen smoking rates ... decline, but chewing tobacco use has remained steady. When athletes who are role models to children are regularly shown on TV using smokeless tobacco, that sends a harmful message."
Boston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco have all banned smokeless tobacco, while Chicago will implement a ban by the All-Star break in July.
The penalty in New York City is expected to match the fine for smoking, about $100.
