In a bold move that has ignited controversy in the Garden State, New Jersey and union leaders have joined forces to ask a judge to dismiss an anti-smoking lawsuit targeting Atlantic City casinos. The lawsuit, filed by a group of non-profit organizations and individuals, seeks to ban smoking in all indoor areas of the city’s iconic casino resorts.
The decision to intervene in the lawsuit marks a rare collaboration between the state government and labor unions, who typically find themselves on opposite sides of the aisle on many issues. However, both parties believe that the lawsuit poses a threat to the economic viability of Atlantic City, which has long been a major hub for the gaming industry in the Northeast.
In a statement released jointly by the New Jersey Attorney General’s office and the local chapter of the UNITE HERE union, the parties argued that the lawsuit “fails to acknowledge the significant economic challenges facing Atlantic City casinos, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.” They pointed to the fact that many casinos in the city have already reported losses in revenue due to the ongoing pandemic, and that a ban on smoking would only exacerbate these financial woes.
Additionally, the statement argued that the lawsuit would put casino workers at risk of losing their jobs, as many rely on the gaming industry for their livelihood. “We cannot in good conscience support a measure that would directly harm the thousands of hardworking men and women who rely on Atlantic City casinos for their income,” the statement read.
The lawsuit, which was filed in federal court, alleges that secondhand smoke in casinos poses a serious health risk to both patrons and employees. The plaintiffs have cited studies linking exposure to secondhand smoke to various health issues, including lung cancer and heart disease.
However, opponents of the lawsuit argue that banning smoking in casinos would drive away customers, many of whom enjoy the freedom to smoke while gambling. They also point out that many casinos already have designated smoking areas and ventilation systems in place to mitigate the effects of secondhand smoke.
The judge overseeing the case has yet to rule on the motion to dismiss, but the issue has already sparked a heated debate in New Jersey. Supporters of the lawsuit argue that the health and safety of casino workers and patrons should take precedence over economic concerns, while opponents believe that banning smoking would be a death blow to the struggling gaming industry in Atlantic City.
As the legal battle continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Atlantic City to see how this issue ultimately plays out. One thing is certain – the outcome of this lawsuit will have far-reaching implications for both the gaming industry and public health in New Jersey.