Sen. Delvin’s cigar-room bill clears Senate

Thursday, May 19 2011

The State Column | Staff

Today the Senate approved Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5542, which would establish special license endorsements for cigar rooms and tobacconists and bring state government nearly $4.3 million in revenue over the next two years. The bill, passed by a vote of 26 to 21, is sponsored by Sen. Jerome Delvin, R-Richland.

“I don’t believe that when voters decided to ban cigarette smoking in public places, they intended to put establishments that cater to cigar patrons out of business,” said Delvin, who says he has enjoyed cigar rooms in other states and around the world. “This is an opportunity to help our state’s tobacconists stay in business, so they can keep creating jobs, and allow adults who choose to have a cigar to do so in a comfortable environment with others who share an interest in and love of cigars.”