The Verkhovna Rada is discussing the possible lifting of the ban on the use of hookahs in restaurant establishments, writes IZ with reference to Obozrevatel. During a meeting of the parliamentary committee on Ukraine's integration into the EU, deputies considered relevant draft laws that provide for the return of legal status for establishments offering hookah smoking services.
Two draft laws have been submitted to the parliament for consideration – one of which was initiated by MP Maryan Zablotsky, and an alternative version was developed by Oleksandr Sanchenko and a group of deputies. Both documents propose the legalization of hookahs, but have different approaches to regulating this activity. Bill No. 12288 aims to repeal the current ban without additional conditions, while an alternative document provides for the creation of special smoking areas, the establishment of ventilation requirements, and the introduction of age restrictions for visitors.
According to economic experts, the legalization of hookahs in restaurants and bars could bring additional revenue to the state budget. Regulating this business will contribute to the de-shadowing of the market, the creation of new jobs, and the growth of tax revenues through licenses, excise taxes, and permits. Similar rules have long been in effect in many European countries, including Germany and Poland, where hookah establishments operate in accordance with strict regulations.
In Ukraine, a ban on the use of hookahs in public places was introduced in 2021.
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