Wisconsin Bill Would Allow For More Cigar Smoking Lounges to Open

A bill that was recently introduced into the Wisconsin Assembly would make a small change to state law that could have a big—and positive—impact on cigar smokers.

Assembly Bill 451 would modify an exemption for certain cigar lounges to allow smoking, namely those that were in existence on June 3, 2009, to clear the way for any cigar lounge to allow its patrons to light up. That current law allows for some cigar smoking lounges in the state, though this would give consumers more options should it pass.

There would still be requirements that a lounge would have to meet, namely that to qualify as a tobacco bar, a business would have to generate at least 15 percent of its annual gross income from the sale on the tavern premises, other than from a vending machine, of cigars and pipe tobacco. Additionally, only the smoking of cigars and pipes would be allowed, meaning no cigarettes or vaping would be allowed.

The bill was introduced by a group of 24 representatives, led by Nate Gustafson, R-Neenaah, with four senators signing on as co-sponsors, though one of those representatives, Darrin Madison,D-Milwaukee), withdrew his sponsorship on Monday.

“Yesterday, we had a productive discussion with Representative Gustafson’s office, and PCA provided its endorsement of the bill,” said Glynn Loope, director of state advocacy for the Premium Cigar Association, via a press release. “This legislation is good for the local and traveling cigar patrons of Wisconsin, good for small businesses that can create a welcoming atmosphere for discerning adults, and good for the state. Once again, legislators are recognizing that cigars are different.”

Loope added that “Representative Gustafson’s office feels good about the bill.”

The bill has been referred to the Committee on State Affairs for deliberation. In a press release, the PCA said that it is hopeful that the legislation will advance through at least one chamber before the end of the year, as that would allow it to be drawn into the 2024 session.