One of the hottest issues in land-based gambling has been the continuation of a multi-state exemption that allows patrons to smoke on the casino floor, but this may soon be snuffed out
Smoking has been a persistent issue for workers on casino floors. Many have objected to the fact that although smoking in public places is outlawed, casinos have enjoyed an exemption across the country.
Ending Smoking on Casino Floors in New Jersey a Priority
Industry and lawmakers have recognized the plight of casino workers, and a body of scientific evidence has demonstrated, beyond doubt, that second-hand smoking leads to cancer and other health-related issues.
CDC Gaming spoke to Cynthia Hallett, who is the CEO of Americans for Nonsomkers’ Rights (ANR) and a vocal proponent of ending the exemption that makes it possible for patrons to smoke in casinos and subject staffers to second-hand smoke.
According to her, more casinos are now pushing to go smoke-free, even though the exemption still allows them to not do so. Experts have also cited a growing awareness of the issue, with enough public support to see the issue through.
Among the people to have thrown his weight behind the issue is Brian Christopher, a YouTuber who has been traveling around the country and live streaming from casino slots. It’s the right thing to do, Brian Christopher said on one occasion.
A lawsuit filled by Nancy Erika Smith, a lawyer who is representing United Auto Workers Region 9 members from Bally’s Caesars, and Tropicana in New Jersey, is expected to get a ruling and possibly send a clear message that public perception of the issue has changed to overwhelmingly support casino dealers.
Essentially, the suit argues that by allowing smoking to continue, workers have their rights violated, and the act itself is at odds with New Jersey’s constitution.
Fierce debates have been taken up all over the country, with the majority of critics citing ample evidence that there was no correlation between ending smoke mandates and sagging revenue.
85% of All Patrons Are Not Smokers
However, this is precisely what Atlantic City casinos fear. There are also good examples of introducing smoke-free casino areas, such as the one added in Parx Casino in Philadelphia, where the property has reported higher customer satisfaction rates.
The majority of patrons nationwide are not smokers or at least do not want to see smoke on casino floors, with some 85% of casino-goers arguing against the practice. Yet, casinos seem inclined to cater to cigarette consumers for a while longer.
If anything, though, 2025 could prove a decisive year for ending smoking on casino floors. All that is left maybe just a few puffs.
