Lung Association Gives Murrieta a 'B'

The city of Murrieta received a B grade from the American Lung Association in an annual report that measures efforts to combat the effects of tobacco.

The ALA's State of Tobacco Control 2012 showed that among cities in San Bernardino and Riverside counties, Murrieta and Palm Springs made advances in protecting their residents from secondhand smoke by restricting smoking in recreation areas.

The city of Murrieta banning smoking in all city-owned parks and adjoining parking lots, as well as city-owned trails and open space. Prior to that, it was an infraction to smoke within 15 feet of city playgrounds and athletic fields. Violators now face $100-$500 fines, depending on prior offenses.

Cities are evaluated for their tobacco control policies including those for smoke-free outdoor environments, smoke-free housing and reducing sales of tobacco products, according to a news release. Results are provided to the federal, state, county and local governments. To see the full report, click here.

Temecula received the top grade in the region with an overall A grade, according to the news release, which also stated that the cities of Loma Linda and Murrieta received the next highest grades with an overall B.

"More still needs to be done at the local level to raise the grades," said Terry Roberts, a spokesperson for ALA in California.

"The American Lung Association is working to increase public knowledge about local policies that protect residents, recognize leadership where steps have been taken, and continue to encourage leadership and political will where improvement is needed," Roberts said.