Oregon City Might Ban Smoking on Sidewalks

The City of Salem is looking at banning smoking on some public sidewalks.

The city council this month asked staff to draw up an ordinance for a vote at a future meeting. It would make it illegal to light up on sidewalks next to Salem Hospital, Willamette University, and businesses that make a request.

The Statesman Journal reports that the idea was pitched by Mayor Anna Peterson after requests came in from the hospital and university.

Councilor Brad Nanke objected, saying it would be difficult to enforce and would only drive smokers up the street or to their cars.

Salem's move comes as the state of Oregon is restricting smoking on an increasing amount of public property, including agency buildings, universities and state parks.