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Many states have passed statewide bans on smoking in enclosed public places, including restaurants and bars. Other states have enacted statewide smoking bans that include exceptions for certain businesses and workplaces—such as cigar bars, tobacco shops, and private clubs.

Some cities and towns have enacted ordinances (laws) that restrict smoking in restaurants and bars—and some cities and towns extend public smoking bans outdoors to sidewalks, apartment complexes, and other public spaces where nonsmokers may congregate, for example.

Violations of these smoking bans may be prosecuted as misdemeanor criminal offenses and include hundreds of dollars of potential fines.

In Connecticut, the state has implemented a comprehensive smoking ban in enclosed public places, including restaurants and bars, through the Connecticut Clean Indoor Air Act. This law prohibits smoking in most indoor areas, with some exceptions such as designated smoking rooms in hotels and tobacco bars that were in operation before certain dates. Local municipalities in Connecticut also have the authority to enact their own ordinances that may further restrict smoking in public places, including outdoor areas like sidewalks and parks. Violations of the state's smoking ban can result in fines and are considered public health violations rather than criminal offenses. The fines for violating the smoking ban can vary, but they generally involve monetary penalties that can be substantial.

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Restaurants

smoking laws

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Connecticut State Code

Connecticut State Code

Restaurants

smoking laws

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