West Virginia An Ordinance regarding use of Tobacco on City Property — Creating Offense and Providing Penalty for Violation of Ordinance — and Declaring an Emergency West Virginia, known as the Mountain State, is a beautiful state located in the Appalachian region of the United States. It offers breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a warm and welcoming community. With a strong focus on outdoor recreation, West Virginia is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, skiing, and other outdoor activities. In order to maintain the pristine beauty and protect the health and well-being of its residents and visitors, West Virginia has enacted an Ordinance regarding the use of tobacco on city property. This ordinance aims to create a tobacco-free environment in public spaces such as parks, recreational areas, sidewalks, and government buildings. The ordinance prohibits the use of all tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, smokeless tobacco, and electronic cigarettes, on designated city properties. It aims to reduce secondhand smoke exposure, prevent littering from tobacco products, and promote a healthier and cleaner environment for everyone. Violators of the ordinance may be subject to penalties, including fines and potential legal repercussions. The specific penalties vary depending on the city and its individual regulations, but they are typically designed to discourage non-compliance and ensure adherence to the ordinance. The enactment of this ordinance is considered an emergency measure due to the urgent need to protect public health and maintain cleanliness in city properties. Secondhand smoke has been recognized as a significant health hazard, leading to various respiratory illnesses and other negative health effects. By implementing this ordinance, West Virginia is taking proactive steps to safeguard its residents and visitors from the harmful effects of tobacco use. Different cities within West Virginia may have slightly varying versions of this ordinance, tailored to their specific needs and community preferences. However, the core objective remains the same — to create a tobacco-free environment on city-owned properties. Communities and local authorities work together to develop and enforce these ordinances, ensuring compliance and promoting a healthier living environment for all. In conclusion, West Virginia's Ordinance regarding the use of tobacco on city property is a significant step towards creating a tobacco-free environment and protecting public health. By prohibiting tobacco use on designated city properties and imposing penalties for non-compliance, the state is actively promoting the well-being of its residents and visitors. The emergency declaration underscores the urgency and importance of this measure, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address the health risks associated with tobacco use.