Potentially of interest, since there’s at least one tobacco shop open in West Seattle and one on the way – a bill allowing such establishments to apply for cigar-lounge licenses is halfway through the State Legislature. Sen. Sharon Nelson (D-34th District), who represents an area including West Seattle/White Center, is upset about SB 5542, according to a news release we received – read on:
Legislation paving the way for the reopening of cigar lounges across the state passed the Senate Floor today, but not before receiving strong opposition from Sen. Sharon Nelson, D- Maury Island, and other progressive legislators, who say the legislation poses a public health risk to workers and will end up costing the state millions from healthcare expenses.
“Workers should never have to choose between making a decent living and staying healthy, but this bill forces them to do just that,” Nelson said. “Forcing employees to work in an atmosphere filled with cigar smoke is not only immoral, but extremely costly to taxpayers, who may have to foot the bill for workers’ medical costs associated with second-hand smoke exposure.”
Senate Bill 5542 would allow tobacco shops to apply for a special cigar lounge with the Liquor Control Board.
“In 2005, 63 percent of Washingtonians approved Initiative 901 that prohibits smoking in public places,” Nelson added. “The voters have been clear about where they stand this issue, and this bill undermines their will.”
The legislation now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.
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