Nassau County Executive Thomas S. Gulotta signed legislation protecting Nassau County's children against access to tobacco products. The bill was signed into law Thursday, Jan. 13.

"It gives me great pleasure to sign this legislation, which protects Nassau County's children and youth against the well documented dangers of smoking," said Gulotta.

The legislation requires that businesses selling tobacco products limit the access of cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, powdered tobacco or any other tobacco products or accessories offered for over-the-counter sale by storing those tobacco products behind the counter in an area accessible only to the establishment personnel or under lock and key.

"We must do everything we can to prevent innocent children and impressionable youth from falling prey to the sophisticated marketing tools used by the tobacco industry," said Gulotta.

"Businesses found in violation of this law will face fines of up to $250. The revenue generated from these fines will be used for the Nassau County's Department of Health anti-smoking education efforts," said Gulotta.

The law will take effect 90 days after the date of the enactment.