In a surprising turn of events, employees of Atlantic City casinos have announced their intention to file a lawsuit over the recent smoking ban that was implemented inside the casinos. This decision comes as a blow to many casino workers who have been vocal about their opposition to the ban since it was first announced.
The smoking ban, which went into effect on April 15th, prohibits smoking on the casino floor and in all public areas of the casinos. While many employees and patrons welcomed the ban as a positive step towards promoting a healthier environment, others have argued that it infringes on their rights and could have a negative impact on the casinos’ bottom line.
Employees of some of the city’s most popular casinos, including Borgata, Harrah’s, and Golden Nugget, have come together to form a coalition to fight against the ban. They argue that the ban not only violates their rights as workers, but also threatens their livelihoods. Many employees rely on tips from patrons who come to the casinos to smoke and drink, and fear that the ban will lead to a decrease in business and subsequently, a decrease in their wages.
In a statement released by the coalition, they said, “We understand the importance of promoting a healthy environment, but we believe that the smoking ban goes too far. Our jobs and livelihoods are at stake, and we are prepared to fight for our rights.”
The coalition has hired a team of lawyers to represent them in the lawsuit, which is expected to be filed in the coming weeks. They are seeking to have the ban overturned or at the very least, modified to allow for designated smoking areas inside the casinos.
The smoking ban has been a controversial issue in Atlantic City since it was first proposed, with both sides presenting compelling arguments for their positions. While many believe that the ban is a necessary step towards promoting a healthier environment, others argue that it infringes on personal freedoms and could have a negative impact on the city’s economy.
It remains to be seen how the lawsuit will play out, but one thing is for certain – the employees of Atlantic City’s casinos are not going down without a fight. They are determined to protect their rights and livelihoods, even if it means taking on the powerful casino industry in court.
