City of Homestead Progresses Smoke-Free Parks Ordinance Following Unanimous First and Second Readings

MIAMI, FLA. – The City of Homestead has taken a significant step toward protecting public health and preserving its natural spaces by unanimously approving both the first and second readings of a new Smoke-Free Parks and Recreation Ordinance. This milestone reflects a strong commitment by city leadership to create healthier, cleaner, and safer environments for residents and visitors, with the goal of fully implementing the ordinance before parks begin their summer sessions. The ordinance prohibits smoking and the use of electronic vapor products in city parks and recreational areas. The policy aims to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke, prevent youth initiation of tobacco and nicotine products, and address the growing environmental impact of tobacco-related waste.

“Youth are especially vulnerable to the influence of tobacco and vaping,” said Bill Amodeo. “By removing smoking and vaping from parks and recreational spaces, the City of Homestead is helping to shift social norms and protect the next generation from nicotine addiction.”

In addition to its public health benefits, the ordinance addresses environmental concerns associated with tobacco and vape product waste. Cigarette butts remain the most littered item in the United States, while discarded electronic vapor products contribute to plastic pollution and introduce lithium-ion batteries into the environment, posing potential risks to soil, waterways, and public safety.

Tobacco Free Florida in Miami-Dade will continue to support the City of Homestead by providing technical assistance, educational materials, and resources to promote awareness and encourage voluntary compliance. Evidence-based strategies such as clear signage and community outreach will be used to ensure successful implementation of the policy.

“This ordinance is not only about reducing exposure to harmful substances, but also about preserving the beauty and safety of our parks for future generations,” said Bill Amodeo. “We commend the City of Homestead for its leadership and dedication to improving community health.”

The City of Homestead joins a growing number of municipalities across Florida that have adopted smoke-free policies in public spaces, reinforcing a statewide movement toward healthier communities.

Tobacco free spaces support our community in many ways. These spaces improve health by providing fewer opportunities for youth to start smoking and by reducing secondhand smoke exposure. These ordinances help lower cigarette litter, encourage people to make healthy choices, and increase quit attempts.

If you’re interested in these benefits for your municipality, Tobacco Free Florida can help. Contact the Tobacco Free Florida in Miami-Dade County to learn more at 305-278-0442.

About Tobacco Free Florida

The Florida Department of Health’s Tobacco Free Florida campaign is a statewide cessation and prevention campaign funded by Florida’s tobacco settlement fund. Since the program began in 2007, more than 350,000 Floridians have successfully quit using one of Tobacco Free Florida’s free tools and services. There are now approximately 451,000 fewer adult smokers in Florida than there were 10 years ago, and the state has saved $17.7 billion in health care costs. To learn more about Tobacco Free Florida’s Quit Your Way services, visit TobaccoFreeFlorida.com or follow the campaign on Facebook at Facebook.com/TobaccoFreeFlorida or on X at x.com/tobaccofreefla.