Governor George Pataki recently announced that he has signed into law legislation authored by New York State Senator Kemp Hannon (Sixth Senatorial District) which requires businesses that sell cigarettes, herbal cigarettes and other tobacco products to store such items in places that are only accessible by store personnel.

The measure, which has the strong support of the Medical Society of the State of New York, as well as the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association and the American Lung Association, is part of the state's ongoing efforts to further restrict youth access to tobacco products.

"New York State is committed to protecting children and teens from the dangers of tobacco use so that they have every opportunity to grow up healthy and strong," Pataki said. "By further restricting access to tobacco products, this new law will help to reduce the possibility that adolescents will try to purchase or shoplift these items."

"This new statute will be a significant addition to Pataki's ongoing effort to deter youth smoking and thus leading to a healthier New York," said Hannon.

The new law would prohibit the practice of placing cigarettes and other tobacco products in "self-service" displays that are accessible to all customers, including minors. "Our children are especially susceptible to the addictive qualities of tobacco, and it is urgent that we protect them from the dangerous effects of tobacco on their growing bodies," said Hannon.

The law does not apply to tobacco businesses or establishments to which admission is restricted to persons 18 years of age or older.

"This law will build on the success of the governor's initiatives here in New York, and is further proof of the governor's commitment to anti-youth smoking initiatives in our state," said Hannon.