Little Canada hookah lounge to pay $4K to settle state lawsuit over executive order violations

Wednesday, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison’s Office announced it had settled a lawsuit against a Little Canada hookah lounge.

According to Ellison’s office, The Hookah Hideout will pay the state a $4,000 fine and will comply with all current and future executive orders. If the business violates the agreement, it would be subject to a civil penalty of $15,000.

"It’s every Minnesotan’s responsibility to stop the spread of COVID-19. I thank this business for agreeing to meet its responsibility and rejoin the vast majority of Minnesota businesses that are already doing so," Ellison said. "The situation is improving but we’re not out of the woods yet, so we must all keep following the COVID guidance and restrictions. My top priority has always been educating Minnesotans about their responsibility and winning voluntary compliance. Enforcement has been and will continue to be a last resort."

Ellison’s office said it’s the fifth settlement it has reached with businesses that violated executive orders.

Minnesotans can continue to report COVID-19-related concerns and complaints online or by calling Ellison’s office at 651-296-3353 or 800-657-3787.