Health officials filed papers in King County Superior Court seeking an injunction against two hookah bars for allegedly exposing employees and the public to tobacco smoke in violation of Washington's Smoking in Public Places Act.
The injunction was filed against The Night Owl in Seattle's University District and Medina Hookah Lounge in south Seattle.
Hookah bars claim they are exempt from Washington's smoking law because the establishment is a private club. However, a ruling by a King County Hearing Examiner last winter said that both the Night Owl and Medina are open to the public, operating similarly to night clubs that charge a cover for admission.
According to a news release, the hookah bars received multiple warnings. Public Health reportedly offered the two lounges an opportunity to sign an operating agreement that would allow for use of non-combustible material, such as steam stones, and ensure minors are not allowed entry.
"Hookah smoke is as addictive as traditional cigarettes," said Interim Director, Public Health- Seattle & King County Patty Hayes in a news release. "Filing a court order is a measure of last resort, but it is necessary now to ensure all our businesses are protecting the health of employees and the public."
Washington's Smoking in Public Places law was passed by voters in 2005 and prohibits smoking in public places and places of employment.
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