(AR) Health department barring smoking based on non-evidence single complaint
Arkansas Jul 26, 2026
location: AR I volunteer at a VFW in Arkansas that runs a canteen. We’re also technically a private club. The bar side is smoking and 21+, as in no minors can enter ever. There is a banquet hall on the property that is rentable upon request and is non-smoking. We strictly adhere to all regulations and guidelines regarding signage, closing off areas, proper ventilation etc. According to the AR Clean Air Act of 2006, the smoking exemption states “All restaurants and bars licensed by the state that prohibit at all times all persons less than 21 years of age from entering the premises, if secondhand smoke does not infiltrate into areas where smoking is prohibited under this rule.” We received an anonymous complaint (we believe through a disgruntled former member) filed through the health department claiming we allow minors in the bar. We don’t. There is also no proof provided in the complaint. The health dept came this week and told us we can no longer operate as a split facility- either the whole facility is 21+ or we’re non smoking throughout. I’m struggling to understand why this is even allowed. Its a first “offense” with no proof and was absolutely untrue. Is there anything I can do to repeal? How does this work? TIA.
