E-cigarettes, hookahs added to smoke-free ordinance

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) – A Kentucky city has passed an expanded smoking ordinance, banning the use of e-cigarettes and hookahs from public places or worksites.

News outlets report the changes go into effect Monday after the Louisville Metro Council voted in May to expand the city’s smoke-free ordinance to include e-cigarettes and hookahs.

Department of Public Health and Wellness Deputy Director Matt Rhodes says there was a comprehensive law that did not include e-cigarettes and hookahs because they were not on the market.

The new ordinance has exemptions for e-cigarette stores and non-tobacco-based hookah lounges given that only non-tobacco and non-nicotine products are used at the locations.

According to the department, the enforcement will be the same as the previous ordinance, with possible fines against establishments ranging between $50 and $500.

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8/21/2017 1:50:03 PM (GMT -4:00)