Fight Over Indoor Smoking Ban in Atlantic City Casinos
Atlantic City’s casino industry is embroiled in a legal battle over smoking. Local 54 of the Unite Here union, representing a large portion of casino workers, and the New Jersey Attorney General’s office have filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit brought earlier this month.
Job Losses Feared by Casino Workers Union
The lawsuit, filed by the United Auto Workers (UAW) representing dealers at three casinos, seeks to overturn New Jersey’s indoor smoking ban exemption for casinos. Local 54 argues that a complete smoking ban would endanger the livelihoods of its members. In a court filing, they claimed that a third of the 10,000 workers they represent could lose their jobs if smoking is prohibited entirely.
Secondhand Smoke Concerns Remain
Although smoking is currently allowed in designated areas comprising 25% of the casino floor, these areas are not isolated. This allows secondhand smoke to permeate much of the casino environment. The UAW lawsuit aims to address these health concerns for casino workers.
Economic Impact of Smoking Ban Debated
Local 54 disputes the UAW’s position on the economic impact of a smoking ban. They claim that studies by Donald DeCaprio, a consultant for the casinos, overestimate the financial losses. DeCaprio argues that a total ban would be “catastrophic,” citing revenue figures suggesting that smoking sections generate a significant portion of gambling income.
