New Jersey judge allows smoking in Atlantic City casinos

A New Jersey judge ruled on Friday that smoking will continue to be permitted in Atlantic City casinos, a decision that has significant implications for the local casino industry and its workers. This ruling comes after a prolonged effort by casino workers to ban smoking in their workplaces, which they argue poses health risks due to secondhand smoke exposure. The workers, represented by the United Auto Workers, had filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn the state's indoor smoking law that exempts casinos from the general ban on smoking in workplaces. The judge's decision is seen as a setback for those advocating for a smoke-free environment, as it allows casinos to maintain their current smoking policy, which permits smoking in 25% of the casino floor. This area is not contiguous, leading to varying levels of secondhand smoke throughout the gaming space. The ruling has sparked disappointment among workers who have been fighting for cleaner air and better health protections. In the past, attempts to implement a smoking ban in Atlantic City have faced challenges, including a significant drop in casino revenue when a temporary ban was enacted in 2008. The state attorney general's office has also highlighted concerns that a smoking ban could negatively impact tax revenues that support programs for senior citizens and disabled residents. Despite the ruling, advocates for a smoking ban remain determined to continue their fight, urging lawmakers to take action and pass legislation that reflects the public's desire for healthier working conditions in casinos. The ongoing debate over smoking in casinos is part of a broader national conversation about workers' rights and health protections in various states.