Lawrence Board of Health debates hookah rules for private events, tables change until next meeting

The Lawrence City Board of Health discussed proposed changes to the local smoking regulation that would affect hookah (shisha) use at private events and private clubs during a meeting in which residents, church volunteers and board staff all spoke.

Public commenters and event organizers said hookah is a longstanding cultural practice tied to Lebanese festivals and urged the board not to restrict private use. John Elhulu, a parishioner and volunteer at St. Anthony’s Maronite Church, told the board, “The cultural use of hookah or shisha, is deeply rooted in Lebanese society, and has become an integral part of the social gatherings, and communal experiences.” Father Edgar of St. Anthony’s echoed that the church sometimes rents hookah equipment for its annual festival and said donated tobacco is used and not sold.

Board staff and several…