General Assembly Raised Bill No. 228 proposes significant amendments to Connecticut's laws regarding liquor permits and tobacco bars. The bill introduces a new definition for tobacco bars, stipulating that these establishments must generate at least 60% of their total annual gross sales from on-site tobacco product sales, as verified by an independent audit. It also lowers the population requirement for municipalities housing tobacco bars from 80,000 to 40,000 and establishes operational and health standards, including mandatory health coverage for employees. Additionally, the bill prohibits the presence of cigarettes in tobacco bars and mandates specific ventilation systems.

Moreover, the legislation revises smoking regulations in public spaces, particularly in establishments with liquor permits, prohibiting smoking in state-owned buildings, healthcare institutions, and restaurants, while allowing exceptions for outdoor areas under certain conditions. It also addresses the use of electronic nicotine delivery systems and vapor products, prohibiting their use in various public spaces but allowing exceptions in designated areas. The bill modifies the criteria for tobacco bars to qualify for a cafe liquor permit and is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, amending sections 30-22a(k), 19a-342(b), and 19a-342a(b) of current law.