A bill introduced in the South Dakota Legislature would allow for the creation of new cigar bars across the state, giving local governments authority to issue licenses for establishments where adults can legally smoke cigars. House Bill 1215 passed the House State Affairs Committee by a vote of 11–1 and now moves to the full House for further consideration.

What HB 1215 Would Do

Under current state law, South Dakota’s 2009 smoking ban generally prohibits smoking tobacco products in public places, with a small set of grandfathered exceptions for existing cigar bars. HB 1215 would expand on that framework by permitting counties and municipalities to issue licenses for new cigar bars, subject to local approval and specific criteria.

Supporters say the bill allows localities to decide whether they want to permit cigar bars, offering adult consumers more choices without altering broader public health laws. Rep. Will Mortenson, the bill’s sponsor, described it as simply expanding local discretion and preserving freedom of choice for adults..

Why It Matters for Premium Cigars

HB 1215 is significant for the premium cigar community because it provides a pathway for new cigar bars to operate legally in South Dakota, something the current smoking ban largely prevents outside existing grandfathered locations.

By establishing licensure and clear operational standards, the bill creates opportunities for specialty cigar establishments to open, serve adult consumers, and operate within a regulated framework that respects both public health concerns and business interests.

CRA will continue to monitor HB 1215 as it moves through the legislative process and report on any developments.

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