Smoking and vaping will be banned Jan. 1 in all Knoxville bars
Summary
The Knoxville city council voted to ban smoking and vaping in all bars, with a compliance deadline of Jan. 1. The ordinance, modeled after laws in Gallatin and Hendersonville, aims to protect musicians and service workers from secondhand smoke. It passed with a 7-2 vote, with opponents citing concerns for personal freedom and the potential impact on local businesses like Marie's Olde Towne Tavern. The ban includes exceptions for retail tobacco stores, cigar bars, and outdoor areas.
(Source:Knoxville News Sentinel)