Casino Workers Push for Last-Minute Atlantic City Smoking Ban

Atlantic City casino staff are asking New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to make one last effort. They want him to pressure state lawmakers to vote on a bill that would stop indoor smoking on casino floors before he leaves office next month.

CEASE Urges Governor to Turn Support Into Action on Casino Smoking

The plea comes from members of Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE). This group has fought for almost five years to end a rule that lets people smoke inside Atlantic City casinos. In a letter to the governor in mid-December signed by 160 workers, they said that just saying he supports them is not enough anymore. They believe Murphy needs to take action while he is still in charge.

Murphy, who is serving his second and final term, has always said he would sign a smoking ban if it landed on his desk. However, CEASE members argue he has not pushed to get the stuck bill through the Legislature, where it has moved since passing a Senate committee last year.

The workers are upset that the issue has dragged on, even though they claim it has wide support from both parties. They also pushed back against claims that banning smoking would hurt Atlantic City’s casinos. They pointed out that Murphy himself has said the city’s unique charm and beach location would help it stay competitive.

Conflicting Studies Fuel Fight Over Atlantic City Smoking Policy

Casino operators and some industry advocates still fight against a ban. They argue that Atlantic City might see a drop in revenue and jobs if nearby states keep allowing indoor smoking. They often point to a 2022 Spectrum Gaming report that predicted a possible decrease in gaming income and employment if a ban goes into effect.

CEASE challenges these claims. They refer to different research from gaming consultancy C3 Gaming. This study found that smoke-free casinos can do just as well as those that allow smoking, as smoking becomes less common across the country. The group also highlights potential savings for employers. These savings could come from lower healthcare costs and better worker retention.

Besides lobbying, the workers have taken legal steps. CEASE is part of a lawsuit that challenges the casino exemption in New Jersey’s Smoke-Free Air Act. They argue that this rule puts casino workers at a higher health risk than most other employees in the state. In a recent appeals court hearing, judges suggested looking closely at the conflicting economic studies both sides mentioned.

Murphy’s office replied to the latest appeal by restating his view that worker health is a top concern. He said he would sign a smoking ban if lawmakers pass it. A spokesperson for Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill, who will start her term in January, did not comment right away. However, Sherrill has shown support for similar laws in the past.