Washington, D.C. – Today, the Premium Cigar Association (PCA) and Cigar Rights of America (CRA) celebrate the passage of HB 1229 in North Dakota, which allows the establishment of cigar lounges in the state. The legislation was signed yesterday by Governor Doug Burgum.
PCA’s Director of State Advocacy, Glynn Loope, provided testimony in support of the legislation and worked with Representative Dan Ruby to get this bill passed. “We are truly pleased that North Dakota has passed this legislation, allowing cigar enthusiasts to enjoy their passion for great cigars in a comfortable and welcoming environment,” said Loope. “We would like to thank Representative Ruby for his hard work and dedication in spearheading this legislation.”
“It was a pleasure to work on this important legislation in North Dakota,” added Cody Carden of the Cigar Rights of America. “This was a great team effort among our organizations and Big Stick Cigars.”
The passage of HB 1229 is a significant victory for cigar enthusiasts in North Dakota, and it would not have been possible without the support of individuals such as Josette M. Dupree of Big Stick Cigars in Mandan, ND, who worked tirelessly to help get this legislation passed.
“We want to give a special thanks to Josette M. Dupree of Big Stick Cigars in Mandan, ND, for her tireless efforts and advocacy on behalf of the cigar community in North Dakota. Her work and dedication were instrumental in helping to get this bill passed,” added Loope.
With the passage of this bill, cigar enthusiasts in North Dakota will have a designated space where they can enjoy their hobby without being subject to smoking bans that prohibit cigar smoking in most indoor public places. “This is a major victory for small businesses in North Dakota,” said Josette M. Dupree of Big Stick Cigars in Mandan, ND.
“We are delighted that North Dakota has taken this important step in recognizing the needs and desires of cigar enthusiasts and providing them with a space to indulge in their passion,” said Loope. “We look forward to working with other states to pass similar legislation, and we encourage all cigar enthusiasts to get involved in advocacy efforts to protect and promote their freedoms.”