Senate Saves California Tobacconists from Smoking Expansion Bill

Andrew Nagy
Posted: June 8, 2011

California's smoking ban will likely be expanding soon, but to the relief of premium cigar retailers, their shops remain safe—for now.

Last Thursday, the Senate voted 25-14 to pass a plan that expands the current workplace prohibition on smoking, but not before exempting retail and wholesale tobacconists, as well as private clubs.

The bill, which was introduced earlier this year, originally sought to ban smoking inside Sunshine State tobacco shops. A strong lobbying effort, though, from the Cigar Association of America, the Cigar Rights of America and the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Association helped persuade the Senators to amend the bill and carve out an exemption for tobacconists.

Share |

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Log In If You're Already Registered At Cigar Aficionado Online

Forgot your password?

Not Registered Yet? Sign up–It's FREE.

See Also: