Smokers rejoice. Nebraska Legislative Bill 118 that was sponsored by Republican Senator Tyson O’Neill of Larson and passed last week by a margin of 45-3 has been signed.
Upon returning to Nebraska Governor Pete Rickets signed the bill on Thursday that will provide an exception to the statewide smoking ban. Since the bill carried an emergency clause, the new law took effect the moment the signature was placed on the bill.
The roller coaster ride that saw the issue debated in the State Supreme Court now comes to a close.
There are currently 10 cigar bars in the state of Nebraska with six in Omaha, two in Lincoln, and one each in Grand Island and South Sioux City. There are also two new cigar bar applications pending with the state Liquor Control Commission.
