Certain casino officials and union representatives argue that such a ban could lead to the closure of several gaming houses. However, the proposed smoking ban has met with resistance from some groups. Workers have been lobbying legislators, citing the potential health risks associated with secondhand smoke in their workplace. The Press of Atlantic City reports that health concerns of casino workers have been the driving force behind the push for this bill since 2006. The assembly speaker, Democrat Craig Coughlin, hinted last week that it might be time to push forward legislation that has been under consideration for some time. State lawmakers are reportedly contemplating a move to extinguish smoking in Atlantic City casinos, a decision that could significantly impact the city’s gaming industry.
