Casino Workers Urge NJ Governor Candidates to Back Smoking Ban
Summary
A group of Atlantic City casino workers is pushing for a complete ban on smoking inside casinos. They are encouraging governor candidates Mikie Sherrill and Jack Ciattarelli to support this initiative, aiming to eliminate the current exception that allows smoking on casino floors.
CEASE Presses Sherrill and Ciattarelli to Support Smoke-Free Casinos
The Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) are advocating for new laws to remove the smoking exception, which they claim jeopardises workers’ health. After the New Jersey primary elections, CEASE reached out to both nominated candidates, with spokesperson Pete Naccarelli expressing hope that they would endorse closing the “casino smoking loophole.”
Smoking Ban Keeps Facing Legislative Gridlock Amid Industry Pushback
Despite a Senate committee supporting a smoking ban 18 months ago, the proposal remains stalled in the Legislature. Industry leaders argue that a total ban could impact job numbers and revenue, although studies indicate that smoking restrictions do not significantly harm financial performance over time. CEASE has also initiated legal action against the smoking exemptions under New Jersey’s clean air laws.
Why should I read this?
This article highlights a critical public health issue as casino workers rally for their rights and safety. It’s a timely discussion that intersects health policy and the casino industry’s future in New Jersey, providing insights into how these decisions could shape the local landscape.