Currently, smoking is allowed in up to 25% of the gaming areas in Atlantic City casinos, but the layout of the casino floors allows smoke to drift into non-smoking sections
A new poll across South Jersey counties shows strong public backing to ban smoking inside Atlantic City casinos, with 83% of people polled wanting a complete indoor smoking ban. The April poll also found that almost four in five voters would visit casinos more if they did not allow indoor smoking.
Poll Sparks Push to End Casino Smoking in Atlantic City as Workers Demand Protection
Public health groups, Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights, and the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids ordered the survey. They point out that voters prefer political candidates who back this ban, including a more favorable view of Governor Phil Murphy if he signs related laws, reported The Press of Atlantic City.
Casino workers who are members of the Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE), have pushed hard to make changes. Pete Naccarelli, who helped start CEASE, said this is not just about numbers — it is about keeping thousands of workers healthy and safe for years to come. He pointed out that many workers have gotten very sick, and they think it is because they breathe in secondhand smoke at work for so long.
Right now, people can smoke in up to 25% of the gaming areas in Atlantic City casinos, but the way things are set up means smoke can spread to parts where it is not allowed. Back in 2006, New Jersey made a law saying people cannot smoke inside, but they left out casinos. Workers and others who want change have been trying to fix this for a long time.
With Elections Near, Advocates Urge Action on Stalled Casino Smoking Legislation
Despite both parties backing a smoking ban, the state Legislature has not moved forward with the legislation. No hearings are on the schedule right now. Governor Murphy has said he would sign a bill to ban indoor smoking in casinos, but some say he has not done enough to push things along. On the other hand, the Casino Association of New Jersey and Local 54 of Unite Here still oppose the ban. They worry it could lead to job cuts and less money coming in.
However, those who support the ban point to a study from 2022 by C3 Gaming. This study found that casinos in other states that went smoke-free during COVID-19 did not see their business drop or lose ground to rivals that still allowed smoking.
As state elections get closer, groups focused on public health are pushing candidates to make this issue a top concern.
Cynthia Hallett, who heads Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights, says backing a smoking ban is a smart move for politicians, given how many voters support it. She points out that if Governor Murphy does not move this law forward, the next person in office might take the credit for keeping casino workers healthy.
