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Workers pushing for smoke-free casinos in Atlantic City thought they’d finally hit the jackpot when lawmakers last month moved a bill that would be a be complete smoking ban in the city’s nine casinos. But now there’s competition from a so-called compromise bill that wouldn’t go that far and instead still allow smoking but in restricted areas.
Labor leaders and smoking opponents aren’t happy.
“I don’t know if the casino executives are aware of this, but smoke goes where it wants,” says Dan Vincente of the United Auto Workers union, which represents dealers and slot techs in three casinos. “It’s just not acceptable. But for some reason in the state of New Jersey you put on a dealer’s uniform, it’s just totally fine to get second hand smoke blown in your face.”
All Atlantic City casinos currently permit smoking on 25% of the gaming floor. This new bill continues that 25% limit and allows smoking at slot machines located at least 15 feet away from live dealers. It also creates enclosed smoking rooms where workers could opt out to avoid smoke.
The compromise measure is currently sponsored by state Sen. John Burzichelli (D-Gloucester). Burzichelli said a total casino smoking ban will struggle to pass the full Senate due to the potential impact on business. Business leaders cite industry warnings that a complete smoking ban could steer Atlantic City customers to gamble in Pennsylvania, causing thousands of layoffs back in Jersey.
“Everyone’s affected by the health of this industry, which serves not only this region, but the entire state,” Burzichelli said. “The casino industry and what it sends off in contributions that run other programs is significant.”
The Casino Association is on board, saying in a statement: “The industry is grateful to the bill sponsors for introducing this legislation, and we look forward to finding a meaningful compromise that will prioritize public health and economic stability while protecting jobs.”
But state Sen. Joe Vitale — who sponsored the total smoking ban bill and chairs the Senate health committee — so far is refusing to post the new bill  for discussion in his committee.
“The casino industry has done a good job at inventing an argument to deceive lawmakers,” Vitale said. “There are thousands who do not come to AC to gamble because of the smoking. Business would likely increase if they ban smoking altogether.”
Vitale said of his bill that he’s “looking forward to a full Senate vote soon.”
Senior Correspondent Brenda Flanagan joined NJ Spotlight News in 2013, and focuses on COVID-19, transportation, environmental and immigration issues. The Emmy-award-winning reporter has also worked as an investigative/political correspondent for news departments at WWOR,WNYW and NJN.
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