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New York Smokers Face Nation's Highest Financial Costs, New Study Says
Northeast and mid-Atlantic states are among the most expensive in the U.S. for smoking tobacco, according to a new study.
New York topped the 2025 list from WalletHub called "The Real Cost of Smoking by State", with residents losing an estimated $5.4 million over their lifetime. Washington, D.C., Maryland, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island were also ranked in the top five.
The study calculated smoking-related costs by combining out-of-pocket expenses, lost income, increased insurance premiums, and missed financial opportunities, such as investing in the stock market instead of …
Legislation Banning Smoking At NY State Parks, Beaches Signed Into Law By Hochul
New Yorkers can no longer light up at state parks and beaches.
Gov. Kathy Hochul signed legislation Friday, July 15, that prohibits smoking in all state-owned beaches, boardwalks, marinas, playgrounds, recreation centers, and group camps.
Those who violate the law could be fined $50.
"Smoking is a dangerous habit that affects not only the smoker but everyone around them, including families and children enjoying our state's great public places," Hochul said in a statement.
"I'm proud to sign this legislation that will protect New Yorker's health and help reduce litter in public parks and …
