New Jersey Senate Members endorse smoking ban bill in Atlantic City

New Jersey’s state senators have signed support for a bill that would end the legality of smoking in casinos throughout the state.

Cynthia Hallet, CEO of American for Nonsmokers’ Rights, said in a press release that she would keep the matter under control and ensures this issue is a top priority. She will also work hard so that the bill can pass and let workers breathe a sigh of relief.

As Hallet said, there was no reason for her not to take firm action on this matter. There is evidence to suggest that smoke-free casinos perform well compared to competitors that allow smoking.

Hallet’s argument is reinforced by a study released by Las Vegas-based C3 Gaming in early June. Based on the study, it was found that the smoking ban no longer resulted in the loss of customers. Therefore, it will not worsen the industry’s loss in casinos.

Sterley Stanley, Member of the Assembly, said that making a casino worker a passive smoker is wrong and dangerous, especially for the health of workers. He said that all parties should work together to remove special exceptions for casinos regarding smoking bans.

“I’m cosponsoring this bipartisan bill to eliminate the casino smoking loophole. It’s a sensible way to improve the health of thousands of New Jersey residents,” Stanley said.

Meanwhile, Republican Leader John DiMaio also said that the NJ casino industry can thrive without forcing workers to inhale secondhand smoke in the workplace. Therefore, he said that he is “co-sponsoring this legislation to protect the health of Atlantic City casino workers who deserve a safe working environment.”

Seeing that many parties support this effort, Nicole Citola the leader of Casino Employee Against Smoking’s Effects (CEASE) expressed her gratitude. She appreciates the support of those who care about the health of workers in the casino industry.

“Thank you for all of the support,” she said. “We, casino workers, should be treated like every other employee in New Jersey. We can’t be faced with a choice between health and pay.”