Fulton County has banned smoking in its parks. And anyone who is found lighting up could face a substantial fine —or even time in jail.
The ordinance, which went into effect last week, intends to diminish the effects of second-hand smoking.
Annual health care costs in Georgia related to second-hand smoke are nearly $200 million, according to the state Department of Public Health. The county estimated about 14 percent of residents are smokers.
In a county poll of nearly 1,000 residents, about three-quarters were in favor of smoke-free parks. In interviews, though, some thought the punishment was too high.
To read more about the no smoking law, click here.