As everyone knows, smoking is not as popular as back in the days! So, today we’ll share 4 facts about smoking in New York City.
Smoking norms have certainly changed over time; it seems that smoking just isn’t as popular as it once was. So lets talk about smoking in New York City.
In 1980, nearly 52 million adults smoked cigarettes. By 2020, that number had decreased to just under 31 million American adults.
This is influenced by many factors, including greater education about cigarettes’ effects, smoke-free policies, and higher taxes on tobacco products.
However, what’s important to know is how it differs in various cities across the country, especially if you intend to visit.
New York City is one such place where smoking is rapidly decreasing. In fact, the New York State Department of Health announced that the decline of the adult smoking rate means it has reached an all-time low.
This is nothing short of an impressive feat for a busy, fast-paced city where cigarette smoking might be a norm.
If you want to know more about smoking in New York City, then here are some facts that are very relevant:
#1 E-cigarettes are prohibited
While traditional cigarette consumption might have been reduced, the opposite is true for the trajectory of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes).
In fact, ABC News has reported that e-cigarette use for teens has gone up 21% over the previous year. While cigarettes may no longer be as popular, the act of smoking still exists with this different medium.
Such findings have prompted the local government to enforce laws such as banning the use of e-cigarettes in all places where smoking is prohibited.
Selling e-cigarettes to people under the age of 21 is also not allowed, along with selling flavored e-cigarette products. To abide by such laws in New York, try to use your e-cigarette in private places instead, especially before going out.
You may also want to purchase your flavored refills beforehand since these are prohibited for sale in the city.
#2 Nicotine alternatives are becoming popular
Nicotine alternatives are becoming more prominent as cigarette use declines. While e-cigarettes are limited by restrictive laws, there are other alternatives that have become more popular in the city.
These include patches, gums, sprays, and pouches. In fact, research from Fortune Business Insights has found that the global nicotine gum market is expected to grow at a rate of 4.8% from 2022 to 2029.
Nicotine alternatives like these are becoming more popular in response to laws restricting cigarette smoking and as people make greater efforts to quit smoking.
Products like pouches and gums are excellent in this regard with the added advantage of being discreet. Case in point, Prilla shares that nicotine pouch popularity has risen in the US.
This alternative became available in the United States in 2016, and it has since then become widely available at most retailers, convenience stores and grocers. This allows you to enjoy a smoke- and tobacco-free experience while exploring the city.
#3 Smoke-free acts are strictly enforced
Today, it is much more difficult to smoke cigarettes, even in outdoor places. The Smoke Free Air Act (SFAA) is enforced in New York City and prohibits smoking (including electronic cigarettes) in most workplaces and public spaces.
Areas such as those near hospitals, parks, beaches, and pedestrian plazas are also included in the prohibited areas.
With smoke-free acts enforced and including e-cigarettes, it may be best to consider other alternatives, at least while you’re out.
For instance, it may be tempting to smoke or vape outside while you’re on a break from checking out a museum, but it’s best to use something more discreet, like one of the nicotine alternatives mentioned earlier.
The FDA has discussed how nicotine gums can help you curb your cravings while you’re out and about and allow you to enjoy a smoke in a more appropriate place, such as a private residence.
#4 There is smoke-free housing
Smoking in New York City can be quite strict. In fact, there are even laws on smoke-free housing. Managers and multi-family residents of buildings in the state are starting to prohibit smoking and vaping anywhere on the property.
This includes individual apartments, common indoor areas, or shared outdoor areas. However, there are some smoke-free buildings that may allow smoking or vaping in a limited outdoor area.
For those visiting New York City without a friend or a relative to stay with, it’s important to inquire about the smoking rules so you can prepare.
Some accommodations will allow you to smoke in a designated area while others may have implemented 100% smoke-free housing. It’s best to do your research in advance and, if there are limitations, prepare alternatives.
Smoking has become quite difficult to do, and understandably so. The good news is that there are various alternatives you can explore.
Whether you’re checking out a new art gallery in New York City or hailing a cab, there are ways to get by and make your visit a more pleasant one.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Ksenia Teres
