In the upcoming legislative sessions, efforts to ban smoking in casinos in Kansas and Missouri might gain momentum. Legislators in both states may soon consider measures supporting smoke-free gaming settings, according to a KCTV story.
These suggestions have been spearheaded by the Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (C.E.A.S.E) organization. Joe Hafley, the founder, emphasized the strong support of organizations such as Americans for Non-Smokers Rights, the American Heart Association, and the American Lung Association.
Hafley emphasized public support, noting, “85% of Missouri residents do not smoke.” This growing advocacy underscores the call for healthier workplaces for casino employees and patrons.
Legislators in Missouri and Kansas will begin their sessions on January 8 and January 13, respectively. The proposed bills aim to align with similar measures adopted in other states to protect public health.
National Debate on Casino Smoking Regulations
The issue of smoking in casinos is not confined to Kansas and Missouri. In New Jersey, casino union workers have been pressing for a smoking ban in Atlantic City casinos for over three years.
Although smoking is prohibited indoors in the state since 2006, casinos and simulcasting establishments are still exempt. Currently, 25% of the gambling floors in Atlantic City allow smoking. However, smoke spreads throughout the casinos due to inadequate containment.
Following the interim prohibitions put in place during the Covid-19 outbreak, politicians in New Jersey took up the subject again. After those limitations were removed in July 2021, casino employees pushed for long-term legislation that would completely ban smoking indoors.
The discussion of similar prohibitions in Kansas and Missouri as the debate heats up is indicative of a larger movement in the casino sector toward smoke-free regulations.
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