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A proposal aiming to ban smoking in Atlantic City casinos will not be introduced in the legislature until the next session. Although originally scheduled for voting within the Senate's health committee today, it has been postponed due to a lack of sufficient support. State Senator Joe Vitale, the sponsor of the bill, has expressed intentions to bring this measure up in the next session after the swearing-in of a new group of lawmakers.
This proposed legislation, known as S264, seeks to completely eliminate smoking in Atlantic City's casinos. It would effectively remove the exemption that currently permits designated smoking areas under the New Jersey Smoke-Free Air Act established in 2006. The bill has faced delays and opposition, predominantly from the casino industry, which argues it could lead to job losses and reduced revenue.
Casino workers, who are among the primary supporters of this ban, have expressed frustration over the delays. They argue that their health is at risk due to exposure to secondhand smoke. The United Auto Workers union, which represents casino workers, has also joined the call for the passage of this bill, urging lawmakers to prioritize the health of the workers.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, smoking in casinos was temporarily banned, however, the restriction has since been lifted and smoking is currently allowed on about 20% of casino floorspace in the state.