Newport’s City Council is considering changes to widen the city’s smoking ban, adding marijuana and vaping to the list of prohibited activities in public areas.
The council approved on first reading on Wednesday (May 14) amendments that would ban cannabis use and vaping in places where tobacco smoking is already not allowed.
Melanie Saunders from the Newport Prevention Coalition praised the council for keeping up with current trends.
These changes would impact rules for buses, pedicabs, city buildings, beaches, parks, and recreational spaces.
Leo Ailes, a student at The Met East Bay School working with the coalition, asked the council to treat public cannabis use and vaping as seriously as tobacco when it comes to health and safety concerns.
Councilor Jeanne Marie Napolitano backed the proposed changes, mentioning she’s heard complaints about marijuana smells in public areas.
City Solicitor Christopher J. Behan presented these amendments in response to a request made by the Newport Prevention Coalition in July 2024.
The council unanimously approved the first reading of the changes. The amendments still need a second reading and final vote before they can be put into effect.