Exempting tobacco bars from the public smoking ban.
If enacted, AB451 would modify state statutes to provide broader allowances for indoor smoking in tobacco bars compared to the current public smoking ban that applies generally to all indoor spaces. This change could lead to a re-evaluation of how tobacco use is regulated in public spaces and could influence other tobacco-related legislation by setting a precedent for exemptions in similar contexts.
Assembly Bill 451 (AB451) proposes an amendment to the existing public smoking ban in Wisconsin, specifically exempting certain tobacco bars from this restriction. The bill defines these tobacco bars as establishments that allow only the smoking of cigars and pipes and derive a significant portion of their revenue (at least 15%) from the sale of such tobacco products. Existing laws already exempt tobacco bars that were operational prior to June 3, 2009, and AB451 seeks to expand this exemption to include new establishments meeting the specified criteria.
The introduction of AB451 has stirred discussions among lawmakers, public health advocates, and industry stakeholders. Proponents of the bill argue that allowing tobacco bars to operate without the constraints of general smoking bans is essential for the survival of such establishments and for the protection of individual freedoms. Conversely, opponents emphasize the potential public health risks associated with increased smoking exposure in indoor settings, arguing that it undermines the progress made in smoking prevention efforts and could negatively affect non-smoking patrons and employees in the hospitality sector.