News and Events
Citizens and Youth Benefit from Establishment of Tobacco Free Parks
April 25, 2023
Tobacco is the number one cause of preventable death in the United States, but it does not have to be. Our local Tobacco Free partnership (TFP) and Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) have been hard at work the past several years creating a safer environment for DeSoto County residents by pushing for more tobacco-free policies in our community.
Previously, our hands were somewhat tied when it came to parks and beaches due to Florida preemption laws restricting local governments from regulating smoking. But due to recent changes in Florida State Law, in order to promote and protect the general health, safety, and welfare of all citizens, Counties now have the authority to restrict smoking within the boundaries of any public park and/or beach.
(left to right) BOCC Members Judy Schafer, Elton Langford, Jerod Gross, and Steve Hickox with West SWAT Youth, Riley Shaver and Weslyn Mercer pose in celebration of tobacco and vape free parks in DeSoto County.
There have been major concerns expressed by community members and our youth about the vaping epidemic that has been on the rise. Tobacco Free Partnership Members and Students Working Against Tobacco have presented to the Board of County Commissioners on numerous occasions to educate them on the harmful effects associated with tobacco and to urge them to do their part as community leaders to protect our citizens.
On April 25th, West Elementary SWAT Youth, Riley Shaver and Weslyn Mercer presented to BOCC members again, but this time, bravely asking them to formally adopt the ordinance. We are excited to announce that our local government made a big stride in supporting the health and well-being of our citizens by unanimously approving the ordinance designating DeSoto County Parks as tobacco and vape-free.
(left to right) West SWAT Youth, Weslyn Mercer and Riley Shaver bravely present to BOCC members asking them to adopt a tobacco free park ordinance in DeSoto County.
One of the primary reasons County officials chose to adopt a tobacco free parks policy is because according to the 2022 Florida Youth Tobacco Survey, 42.9% of our youth reported being exposed to secondhand smoke from vaping or cigarettes. An alarming 34.4% of students ages 11-17 in DeSoto County reported that they have tried vaping.
 Riley Shaver proudly ‘puts the hammer down’ officially designating DeSoto County parks tobacco and vape free. |
As noted in the County Ordinance, law enforcement officers (including code enforcement) can issue a citation for a first and second violations within a one-year period. A notice to appear may be issued for any third, or subsequent, violation of this section within a year period. While it is not the goal of the Tobacco Free Partnership of Desoto County, nor Students Working Against Tobacco, to issue citations, it is our goal to protect our youth from the hazards of secondhand smoke and the social norms of tobacco in our rural community. We are extremely thankful to our Board of County Commissioners for their support in voting this ordinance into effect. As noted in the County Ordinance, law enforcement officers (including code enforcement) can issue a citation for a first and second violations within a one-year period. A notice to appear may be issued for any third, or subsequent, violation of this section within a year period. |
While it is not the goal of the Tobacco Free Partnership of Desoto County, nor Students Working Against Tobacco, to issue citations, it is our goal to protect our youth from the hazards of secondhand smoke and the social norms of tobacco in our rural community. We are extremely thankful to our Board of County Commissioners for their support in voting this ordinance into effect.
Our Tobacco Free Partnership is working with our local sign shop to provide appropriate signage at all County parks so that visitors are aware of the ordinance. Signage will be at no cost to the County. In addition, we are working closely with the City of Arcadia to convert their tobacco free zones resolution to a Tobacco Free Park Ordinance as well.
We are excited for the positive changes coming to our community to better protect our citizens and look forward to what is yet to come. If you are interested in joining our efforts, or would like more information on adopting a tobacco-free policy, contact Lindsey Sager, Tobacco Prevention Specialist at lsager@quitdoc.com.
