The city of Gulfport is taking steps to create a cleaner, healthier environment along the city’s shoreline. Gulfport city council members have already given initial approval to a proposed ban on smoking and vaping at public beaches, with a final vote expected on Tuesday. The proposed ordinance would prohibit the use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and other tobacco products on the sand, the adjacent grassy areas, public pavilions, and up to the sidewalks. However, there's an exception for unfiltered cigarettes, though the details of that exception remain unclear. The proposed new rules would fall in line with a Florida state law — Florida Clean Air Act — that permits municipalities to restrict smoking in public parks and beaches. Supporters of the new ban, say it’s a crucial step in protecting local waterways, as tobacco waste — particularly cigarette butts — often ends up polluting the ocean and shoreline. But not everyone is on board. This isn’t the first time Gulfport has tried to regulate smoking on its beaches. A similar ordinance was passed in 2011 but was overturned following a legal challenge.