2024 House Bill 5555

Tobacco: other; certain hookah lounges; exempt from smoking prohibition.

A bill to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled “Public health code,” by amending section 12606a (MCL 333.12606a), as amended by 2023 PA 318.

AI Analysis – Experimental

House Bill No. 5555 seeks to amend the 1978 Public Health Code by modifying section 12606a to exempt certain cigar bars, tobacco specialty retail stores, and hookah lounges from smoking prohibitions under specific conditions. These conditions include generating a significant portion of annual income from tobacco sales and humidor rentals, being physically separated from non-smoking areas, installing an on-site humidor, prohibiting entry to individuals under 21, and allowing only the smoking of cigars retailing for over $1.00 while prohibiting other tobacco products. The bill also outlines a one-time exemption for cigar bars that missed an affidavit filing deadline, with a 21-day grace period for late submissions, and requires annual affidavit submissions to maintain exemption status. Additionally, it permits these establishments to obtain liquor, food, and restaurant licenses. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of either Senate Bill No. ____ or House Bill No. 5554 of the 102nd Legislature.

Introduced in the House

March 12, 2024

Introduced by Rep. Alabas Farhat (D-3) and 10 co-sponsors

Co-sponsored by Reps. Bradley Slagh (R-85), Helena Scott (D-7), Jimmie Wilson (D-32), Emily Dievendorf (D-77), Kimberly Edwards (D-12), Cynthia Neeley (D-70), Mike Harris (R-52), Robert Bezotte (R-50), Andrew Beeler (R-64) and Graham Filler (R-93)

Referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform