Should Local Laws Limit Tobacco Displays? [POLL]

When it comes to smokers' rights in Rockland, the debate can become fierce.

Nyack lawmakers addressed the idea of last year, a conversation that galvanized hundreds of residents—some in favor of legislation combating tobacco products, and others vehemently opposed.

Earlier this year, the Palisades Center announced it will this May. It's a decision that has several mall employees miffed, as they'll have to kick the habit or take smoke breaks inside their cars.

Now, the Village of Haverstraw has passed a local law that restricts tobacco product displays in businesses that are open to children. The legislation aims to reduce the number of youngsters who pick up the habit, officials said, and shops that do not obey can face a $500 fine.

"We know that the more often our kids are exposed to tobacco products the more likely they are to smoke," said Jeff Seyler, President and CEO of the American Lung Association of the Northeast. "In passing this forward- thinking law, the Village of Haverstraw has taken a step forward toward preventing the next generation of youth from becoming addicted to a product that leads to disease and premature death."

What's your take? Sound off in our Patch poll below.