Bill > SB00228

This bill, effective October 1, 2026, allows the Department of Consumer Protection to issue cafe liquor permits to more tobacco bars by modifying the definition of a "cafe" and the exceptions to smoking and vaping bans. Specifically, it expands the criteria for a tobacco bar to qualify as a cafe, including those that commenced operations on or after January 1, 2003, and meet new requirements such as generating at least sixty percent of their gross sales from tobacco products, being located in municipalities with at least forty thousand residents and no other tobacco bars, not allowing cigarettes, having a humidor, and utilizing separate ventilation systems. The bill also amends regulations concerning where smoking and the use of electronic nicotine or cannabis delivery systems are prohibited, creating an exception for qualifying tobacco bars.

Justice

General Law Committee (Joint)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB00228&which_year=2026