Workers in Atlantic City casino smoking lawsuit decry ‘poisonous’ workplace; state stresses taxes
Atlantic City, NJ – A group of workers at Atlantic City casinos have filed a lawsuit against their employers, claiming that the secondhand smoke in their workplace has created a toxic and hazardous environment. The workers, who are seeking compensation for health problems they have allegedly developed as a result of exposure to cigarette smoke on the job, say that their employers have not done enough to protect them from the harmful effects of smoking.
The lawsuit, which was filed in Atlantic City Superior Court, names several casinos as defendants, including The Borgata, Harrah’s Resort, and Tropicana. The workers argue that the casinos have not provided adequate ventilation or designated smoking areas, despite knowing the risks associated with secondhand smoke.
In a statement to the press, one of the plaintiffs, a casino dealer named Maria Sanchez, described the working conditions at the casino as “poisonous.” She claimed that the constant exposure to cigarette smoke has caused her to develop respiratory problems and other health issues.
Another plaintiff, a housekeeper named Juan Rodriguez, said that he has developed asthma and other respiratory issues due to his exposure to secondhand smoke at work. He accused the casinos of prioritizing profits over the health and safety of their employees.
In response to the lawsuit, the state of New Jersey stressed the importance of taxes generated by the casino industry. A spokesperson for the New Jersey Department of Health pointed out that the state relies heavily on revenue from casinos to fund essential services, such as public education and healthcare.
The spokesperson also noted that casinos in Atlantic City are subject to strict regulations regarding smoking and indoor air quality. The state requires casinos to provide designated smoking areas and to maintain ventilation systems that minimize the impact of secondhand smoke on employees and patrons.
However, the plaintiffs argue that these measures are not enough to protect workers from the dangers of secondhand smoke. They are seeking compensation for their medical expenses and other damages, as well as changes to workplace policies that would better protect employees from the harmful effects of smoking.
The lawsuit has drawn attention to the ongoing debate over smoking in casinos and other indoor spaces. Supporters of smoking bans argue that secondhand smoke poses a serious health risk to employees and patrons, while opponents argue that such bans infringe on personal freedoms and hurt businesses.
As the lawsuit makes its way through the legal system, the workers involved are hopeful that they will receive justice and that their employers will be held accountable for the alleged harm caused by secondhand smoke in the workplace. In the meantime, the debate over smoking in Atlantic City casinos is likely to continue, as stakeholders on all sides grapple with how to balance public health concerns with economic interests.
