Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has signed legislation prohibiting people from smoking near schools while after-school programs are in operation.

St. Lawrence County senators Betty Little, R-Queensbury, Joe Griffo, R-Rome and Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton all voted for the measure prior to it landing on Cuomo’s desk.

Assembly online records have not been updated to show how their members voted.

“This commonsense measure will help protect children from the dangerous effects of second-hand smoke and complements ongoing efforts that have resulted in smoking in New York hitting an all-time low," Cuomo said. “I thank the sponsors for their efforts to make this a stronger and healthier New York."

The bill expands the ban on smoking within 100 feet of the entrances, exits or outdoor areas of public and private schools to prohibit smoking during after-school programs.

The ban would be in effect only during those hours in which the after-school programs are in session, according to Cuomo.=.

Residences or residential property within the 100-foot perimeter would be excluded from the new law's smoking ban.

In addition, the new law requires such programs to post signs specifying the times at which smoking is prohibited, Cuomo said.