MMA Supports Ordinance on Banning Smoking Tobacco, Cannabis in Public Parks and Certain Other Public Spaces

August 31, 2023

On August 30, the MMA sent a letter to the City of St. Paul voicing its support of a proposed ordinance banning smoking and vaping in public parks and certain other public spaces, regardless of whether the source is nicotine or cannabis. 

The MMA has long advocated for restrictions on smoking and second-hand smoke.  

“The City of Saint Paul has an opportunity to help to shape healthy community norms, and an opportunity to ensure that those community members that use outdoor spaces such as public parks are able to do so safely.” 

MMA President-elect Laurel Ries, MD, spoke with KSTP-TV regarding the proposed ordinance. “Minnesotans should be able to breathe clean air in public spaces,” she said. 

A public hearing on the ordinance is scheduled for early September.  

Latest News

MMA Forum With National Speaker to Address the Aftermath of Crisis

October 9, 2025

The MMA is partnering with Hennepin Healthcare to offer an in-person session on “Supporting Patients, Families, and Professionals in the Aftermath of Crisis” on October 21 from 6 to 8 pm in Room RL110 at the HCMC Red Building, 730 South 8th Street, in Minneapolis. 

MMA President and MMA Foundation CEO to be Featured Panelists at Symposium in Rochester

October 9, 2025

The MMA, in partnership with the Wisconsin Medical Society, will lead a panel discussion titled "The Role of Medical and Professional Societies in Supporting Clinicians and Community Health" at the Transforming Community and Rural Healthcare 2025: Bold Innovation and Partnerships symposium, to be held on October 27-28, at the Mayo Civic Center in Rochester.  

Federal Government Shutdown Impacts Minnesota Healthcare

October 2, 2025

The federal government shutdown will affect the Minnesota healthcare system in several important ways.