Atlantic City Casinos Divided as Union Clash Intensifies Over Indoor Smoking Ban
Casino worker unions in Atlantic City are embroiled in a heated debate over indoor smoking policies. Unite Here Local 54, representing non-gaming workers, opposes a complete smoking ban, citing potential economic impacts on jobs.
alt text
The controversial issue has drawn attention from various stakeholders:
- New Jersey lawmakers are split on the ban, with some Republicans supporting it
- Delaware Park is investing $5M in a smoking-allowed gaming patio
- The CDC has issued warnings about casino air quality
- Several casino workers have linked cancer diagnoses to workplace smoking exposure
Recent developments include:
- Brian Christopher's comprehensive smoke-free casino research study
- West Virginia casino seeking exemption from local smoking ban
- Norfolk Casino receiving approval while facing smoking policy questions
- New Jersey Supreme Court rejecting emergency request to halt casino smoking
- Tribal casinos adjusting their policies based on customer demand
Casino operators are responding differently:
- Carnival Cruise Lines expanding smoke-free casino areas
- Bally's Lincoln adding second non-smoking casino space
- Florida tribal casino expanding smoking areas
- Bally's and Boyd Gaming shareholders rejecting smoking ban proposals
Current legal status:
- Atlantic City lawsuit dismissal upheld
- Rhode Island considering new legislation for 2025
- Pennsylvania advocates rallying for smoking ban
- Casino workers continue arguing for workplace rights protection
The debate continues balancing economic concerns with public health, worker safety, and customer preferences, with no immediate resolution in sight.
Note: The original content provided seems to be a collection of news headlines rather than a full article. I've synthesized the key information into a comprehensive overview of the casino smoking situation.