In a surprising turn of events, shareholders of Bally’s Corporation voted down a proposed study to make the company’s casinos smoke-free, including two locations in Rhode Island. The decision comes as a blow to public health advocates who have long been pushing for smoke-free environments in casinos to protect both employees and patrons from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.
The vote, which took place at Bally’s annual shareholders meeting, was met with mixed reactions from attendees. Supporters of the study argued that eliminating smoking in casinos would not only improve air quality and overall health for all who visit the establishments, but also help to reduce the prevalence of smoking addiction among patrons. They cited a number of studies that have shown the negative health impacts of exposure to secondhand smoke, particularly in enclosed spaces like casinos.
However, opponents of the study expressed concerns that a smoke-free policy could lead to a decrease in revenue for the company. They argued that many casino-goers enjoy smoking while they gamble, and implementing a ban on smoking could deter these customers from choosing Bally’s casinos as their preferred destination. Additionally, some shareholders raised doubts about the feasibility of enforcing a smoke-free policy in a casino setting, where smoke can easily drift from designated smoking areas to non-smoking areas.
Despite the passionate arguments on both sides of the debate, the majority of Bally’s shareholders voted against conducting a study on making the casinos smoke-free. This decision highlights the ongoing tension between public health concerns and financial considerations within the gaming industry.
In response to the vote, Bally’s CEO George Papanier issued a statement reaffirming the company’s commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all patrons. He noted that while the company respects the shareholders’ decision, they will continue to explore other ways to promote health and wellness within their casinos.
As for the two Rhode Island locations affected by the vote – Bally’s Casino in Lincoln and Twin River Casino Hotel in Tiverton – it remains to be seen how the decision will impact their operations moving forward. Public health advocates have expressed disappointment with the outcome, but they remain hopeful that Bally’s and other gaming companies will eventually prioritize the health and well-being of their customers and employees.
