The American Lung Association (ALA) is urging New Jersey lawmakers to amend the state’s smoke-free laws in its 2025 State of Tobacco Control report. The ALA is advocating for a comprehensive update that would include casinos under the state’s smoking ban, raise tobacco taxes, and strengthen efforts to prevent tobacco use, especially among youth.
Tackling Tobacco Use in New Jersey
The ALA’s recommendations highlight growing concerns over the influence of the tobacco industry in the state. Michael Seilback, part of the ALA’s AVP Nationwide Advocacy team, expressed these concerns: “Here in New Jersey, we are seeing tobacco industry lobbyists working to prevent smokefree casinos from becoming a reality.” Seilback also warned about the increasing appeal of tobacco products to young people, such as e-cigarettes and flavored nicotine pouches. “The tobacco industry is also introducing new products that appeal to youth like e-cigarettes that mimic smartphones, kid-friendly flavors and flavored nicotine pouches that are heavily marketed by social media influencers.”
New Jersey’s smoke-free law, which has been in place since 2006, bans smoking in most indoor spaces. However, casinos and simulcasting facilities are exempt, allowing smoking in designated areas. The ALA believes that expanding the smoke-free law to cover these venues is a critical step in reducing tobacco exposure and protecting public health.
New Jersey’s Tobacco Control Report
In its 2025 report, the ALA gave New Jersey low grades for its tobacco control efforts, specifically in the areas of tobacco prevention funding and taxes. The state received F grades in both the funding for tobacco prevention programs and tobacco taxes categories. This reflects a lack of sufficient resources to fight tobacco use and deter new smokers, especially in vulnerable communities.
One key legal development came in September 2024 when New Jersey Superior Court Judge Patrick Bartels ruled to continue allowing smoking in Atlantic City casinos, despite a lawsuit filed by The United Auto Workers. The union represents casino dealers who were seeking to eliminate smoking in the workplace.
The ALA continues to push for stronger legislation and greater investment in tobacco control to protect New Jersey’s residents from the dangers of tobacco use.
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