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AB 211

Relating to: exempting tobacco bars from the public smoking ban.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Armstrong and 30 co-sponsors

AB 211 - Relating to: exempting tobacco bars from the public smoking ban OverviewBill Number: AB 211 Title: Relating to: exempting tobacco bars from the public smoking banStatus:

Failed to pass notwithstanding the objections of the Governor pursuant to Joint Rule 82
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Bill Summary · AB 211

AB 211 - Relating to: exempting tobacco bars from the public smoking ban

Overview

Bill Number: AB 211
Title: Relating to: exempting tobacco bars from the public smoking ban
Status: Presented to the Governor on 12-4-2025
Introduced: January 08, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of AB 211 is to create an exemption to the state's existing public smoking ban for designated "tobacco bars." The bill's sponsors argue that this exemption is necessary to protect the viability of businesses that specialize in the sale and consumption of tobacco products, which they contend have been unfairly impacted by the blanket smoking prohibition.

Key Provisions

  • Defines a "tobacco bar" as an establishment that:
    • Generates 80% or more of its revenue from the sale of loose tobacco, cigars, pipes, and other smoking devices
    • Prohibits the entry of persons under the age of 21
    • Maintains a ventilation system that meets certain air quality standards
  • Exempts tobacco bars from the state's existing law banning smoking in public places and places of employment
  • Requires tobacco bars to post clear signage notifying patrons that smoking is permitted on the premises

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Tobacco bar owners and operators would be able to allow smoking on their premises, potentially boosting revenue and foot traffic
  • Employees of tobacco bars would continue to be exposed to secondhand smoke, though the bill requires enhanced ventilation
  • The general public, including non-smoking patrons, would have fewer smoke-free public spaces available to them in areas with tobacco bars

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

AB 211 was introduced in the state legislature on January 8, 2025 and has since passed both the House and Senate. The bill was presented to the Governor on December 4, 2025 and is currently awaiting their signature or veto. If signed into law, the tobacco bar exemption would take effect 90 days after the Governor's approval.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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