Workers at Atlantic City’s casinos are speaking out against New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy after he made controversial comments regarding a proposed smoking ban in the city’s gaming establishments. Murphy recently stated that he believes there are “two sides” to the issue, sparking outrage among casino workers who have long been fighting for a complete ban on smoking in casinos.
The proposed ban, which would prohibit smoking on the gaming floors of all Atlantic City casinos, has been a contentious issue in the city for years. Proponents of the ban argue that it is necessary to protect the health and safety of both workers and patrons, while opponents claim that such a ban would hurt business and lead to a loss of revenue.
Governor Murphy’s comments have not gone over well with workers in the city’s casinos, many of whom are exposed to secondhand smoke on a daily basis. In a statement released by the United Auto Workers union, which represents many casino workers in Atlantic City, workers expressed their disappointment with the governor’s stance on the issue.
“We are extremely disappointed in Governor Murphy’s comments regarding the proposed smoking ban in Atlantic City casinos,” the statement read. “Workers in the city’s gaming establishments have been fighting for years to put an end to the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, and it is unacceptable for the governor to suggest that there are ‘two sides’ to this issue. The health and safety of workers and patrons should be the top priority, and we urge the governor to reconsider his position.”
Workers also voiced concerns about the potential impact of a smoking ban on their jobs and the city’s economy. Many fear that a ban on smoking could lead to a decrease in revenue for the casinos, which could in turn result in job cuts and layoffs.
Despite these concerns, many workers remain steadfast in their support for a smoking ban in Atlantic City’s casinos. They argue that the health and safety of workers and patrons should take precedence over any potential financial losses.
The battle over the proposed smoking ban is likely to continue in Atlantic City, with workers and casino owners on opposite sides of the issue. Governor Murphy’s comments have only served to further ignite the debate, and it remains to be seen how the issue will ultimately be resolved.