By creating a special exemption for cigar bars, this bill undermines local control over smoke-free policies and impedes long-standing public health goals aimed at reducing tobacco use and secondhand smoke exposure across the Commonwealth. Moreover, it shifts enforcement responsibilities to local governments, burdening them with ensuring compliance with state and local laws and regulations despite limited resources.  

The House recently voted to advance HB 211 over strong objections from healthcare organizations and patient advocacy groups, including the American Lung Association, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, and the KMA.

While Kentucky has made significant progress in reducing smoking rates, it still ranks among the highest in the nation. Allowing even limited exceptions to local smoke-free policies could undermine this progress at a time when the state continues to struggle with a tobacco-related death rate that is among the highest in the U.S.

Contact your Senator today and encourage them to OPPOSE HB 211.

Contact Your Senator
and ask them to OPPOSE House Bill 211.

Legislative Message Line: (800) 372-7181