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Public Health Advocates Thank Governor Evers for Vetoing Tobacco Bars Bill

Our strong smoke-free air law continues to protect Wisconsinites

December 5, 2025

Statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Wisconsin Government Relations Director Sara Sahli, Advocacy Director for the American Lung Association Molly Collins and Wisconsin Government Relations Director for the American Heart Association Nicole Hudzinski following Governor Ever’s veto of Assembly Bill 211.

MADISON, Wis., – “Today, we thank Governor Evers for keeping Wisconsin’s smoke-free air law strong. Assembly Bill 211 was not a niche “cigar bar” bill. It was far more comprehensive and would have allowed the use of cigars, pipe tobacco, hookah, and brown cigarettes in taverns again. This bill would have moved Wisconsin in the wrong direction and would have created a significant loophole in our state’s strong and widely popular smoke-free air law. Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death. We appreciate the Governor’s veto and look forward to working with lawmakers on policies that reduce the state’s tobacco burden, not add to it.”

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About the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org. 

About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.orgFacebookX or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

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