Tobacco.org

Galveston bar and restaurants' smoking ban fight faces long odds 

Citing a state law designed to shield businesses from government regulation, a group of bar and restaurant owners is challenging a sweeping city ban on tobacco smoking set to become law Jan. 1.

In a letter to the city's attorney, the Galveston Bar and Tavern Owners Association asked the city to conduct an assessment of how the ordinance would affect its member businesses.

Such an accounting, called a "Takings Impact Assessment," is required under the state's Private Real Property Rights Protection Act, the association argues.

Jump to full article »