New Jersey's casino smoking debate gains another Republican ally as Assembly Republican Whip Brian Bergen joins the push for a smoking ban in Atlantic City casinos.

The proposed legislation (Assembly Bill 2143 and Senate Bill 1493) has garnered significant bipartisan support, with 43 Assembly sponsors - enough to pass the 80-seat chamber. However, Democratic leadership continues to delay action despite having sufficient votes.

Bergen called on Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin (D-Middlesex) to advance the bills, stating, "Leaving the casino smoking ban bill off the Tourism Committee's agenda is more than an oversight. It's an insult." He emphasized that bipartisan support exists to move the legislation forward.

Assembly Minority Leader John DiMaio (R-Warren) previously backed the initiative in September, offering Republican support to help pass the bill. This growing Republican backing comes as the party makes gains in the traditionally Democratic state.

The casino industry opposes the ban, arguing it could lead to job losses, reduced tax revenue, and possible casino closures. Despite this resistance, the legislation has support from:

• 40 Assembly co-sponsors
• A majority of the Assembly Tourism, Gaming, and the Arts Committee
• 17 Senators in the 40-seat chamber

The bills have remained stalled in the Assembly Tourism, Gaming, and the Arts Committee, chaired by Assemblyman Bill Moen (D-Camden), following Democratic leadership directions to delay voting on the smoking ban proposal.

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