The law came with some backlash from bar owners, saying the ban will drive them out of business.  Tennessee law currently allows smoking in 21 and up bars at the owner’s discretion.

Metro Council said they are not permitted to prohibit smoking or vaping at establishments that are specifically cigar bars, hookah bars, cannabis bars, tobacco retail stores and vape retail stores due to state law.

The ordinance, BL2022-1383, goes into effect in March 2023.