FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 3, 2017

Contact: Jane Lerner, Director of Strategic Communications
Office of the County Executive (845) 638-5645

Rockland County Executive Ed Day Signs Bill to Ban Tobacco Sales at Pharmacies

NEW CITY, NY – Rockland County Executive Ed Day today signed into law a bill that makes the county the first in the state to ban tobacco sales in pharmacies.

He signed the bill at Tappan Zee High School, where students first started lobbying for the proposal several years ago. Members of the Legislature also took part.

"The idea that started right here in Tappan Zee High School is now law and I wouldn't be surprised if other municipalities follow this example," the County Executive told students. "All of you here at Tappan Zee High School can take pride in your considerable accomplishments that will leave a lasting mark on Rockland and the rest of the state."

He praised them for exercising their rights in a democracy to approach elected officials and ask them to consider the legislation.

It was sponsored by Legislator Nancy Low-Hogan, whose district includes the South Orangetown school district. She took part in the ceremony, along with Legislators Harriet Cornell, Toney Earl and Aney Paul

"You have learned your lessons about government and the ability of one person or one group to make a difference," Day told students.

He also confessed that he used to be a smoker until he kicked the habit more than 20 years ago.

"Tobacco is very addictive," he told students. "It's not easy to quit. That's why the best strategy is not to start in the first place."

The County Executive thanked many people for their help, including the Rockland Department of Health, POW'R Against Tobacco, the American Lung Association, and the schools, particularly Tappan Zee High School nurse Judy Flagg.