Bill > SB150

This bill creates a new "Cigar Room" license endorsement for all-beverages alcohol licensees, allowing them to establish a designated indoor smoking area specifically for premium cigars. To qualify, establishments must meet several requirements: generate at least 10% of annual gross income from non-gaming sources, have a humidor, prohibit smoking of other tobacco or nicotine products, post notices about smoking restrictions, restrict entry to those 21 and older, and create a fully enclosed smoking area with specific ventilation standards. The bill defines "premium cigars" with detailed characteristics, such as being hand-rolled, wrapped in whole-leaf tobacco, and weighing more than 6 pounds per 1,000 units. Employees are prohibited from entering the smoking area while patrons are smoking and cannot take or deliver drink orders in person, though customers can order electronically. The bill also exempts these cigar rooms from clean indoor air regulations and includes a requirement for the Department of Justice to conduct a gaming industry study by December 1, 2026, which will assess various aspects of gaming in Montana and produce a public report. The cigar room study provision is set to terminate on December 31, 2026.

Business and Industry

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1639