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Protect the Health of Kentucky’s Communities: Oppose Exemption for Cigar Bars

Everyone has the right to breathe clean, smoke-free air regardless of where they live, work or play. That is why the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) opposes House Bill 211.

February 11, 2025

Statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Government Relations Director Doug Hogan

 

FRANKFORT, KY  – “Everyone has the right to breathe clean, smoke-free air regardless of where they live, work or play. That is why the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) opposes House Bill 211, which prohibits local governments from prohibiting smoking in so-called cigar bars. This legislation would roll back current local laws that require all bars to be smoke-free and prevent future local ordinances from including so-called cigar bars. 

“Local communities and counties are uniquely positioned to meet the needs of their constituents and pass laws that are proven to help families be healthy, safe and secure. When states block or limit communities from passing their laws as HB 211 does, it can hurt the health and well-being of our families, friends and neighbors. 

“Secondhand smoke from cigars poses significant health risks to people who smoke and those around them and should be included as part of any smoke-free law. Cigar smoke contains the same toxic compounds and chemicals that can cause cancer that are found in cigarette smoke. Exposure to secondhand smoke, including from cigars, can cause coronary heart disease, stroke, lung cancer and other diseases. 

“Normalizing cigar smoking in our communities sends the wrong message to our young people and provides tobacco companies with another opportunity to market their addictive and deadly products aggressively. ACS CAN calls on legislators to protect the health and safety of our local communities and vote no on House Bill 211.”

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Media Contacts

Michelle Zimmerman
Associate Director, Regional Media Advocacy