Exception for hookah bars OK'd by NC House panel

Publication Date: 2009-07-29

• Author:AP
• Publication:YAHOO! FINANCE

North Carolina House committee agrees to exempt existing hookah bars from smoking ban

Establishments where patrons smoke tobacoo using a water pipe could remain open in North Carolina in legislation heading to the full House.

A judiciary committee Tuesday evening narrowly approved a bill to allow hookah bars open as of July 1 to keep selling after a new smoking ban in bars and restaurants takes effect next year.

A hookah consists of a bowl connected to a vase of water with a tube and mouthpiece. The tobacco sits inside the bowl and is heated by charcoal, producing a vapor to be inhaled.

Rep. Cullie Tarleton said otherwise lawful hookah bars should be able to keep operating. He said about 20 such bars exist in the state, mostly in college towns.

Cigar bars already will be exempt from the smoking ban.