Workers take their quest to ban smoking in Atlantic City casinos to a higher court
Atlantic City, NJ – In a groundbreaking move, a group of workers from Atlantic City casinos have taken their fight to ban smoking within the establishments to a higher court. The workers, who are represented by the union Unite Here Local 54, argue that their health and safety should not be compromised in order to accommodate smokers.
The workers first brought their case to Atlantic City Superior Court, where Judge Joseph Marczyk ruled against them, stating that the current law allows for smoking in designated areas of the casinos. However, the workers are not deterred and have now filed an appeal to the Appellate Division of the New Jersey Superior Court.
“We are not asking for anything unreasonable,” said Maria Gonzalez, a cocktail waitress at one of the casinos. “We just want to be able to do our jobs without constantly being exposed to secondhand smoke, which has been proven to cause serious health issues.”
The workers argue that the current smoking areas within the casinos are not sufficient to protect them from the dangers of secondhand smoke. They point to studies that have shown a direct link between exposure to secondhand smoke and respiratory issues, heart disease, and even cancer.
“We deserve to have a safe and healthy work environment,” said James Smith, a casino dealer. “We shouldn’t have to sacrifice our health in order to earn a paycheck.”
The workers are hopeful that the Appellate Division will rule in their favor and ban smoking in all areas of the casinos. They are supported by various health organizations, including the American Lung Association and the American Cancer Society, who have long advocated for smoke-free environments in public spaces.
“We urge the court to consider the health and safety of the workers in making their decision,” said Dr. Jennifer Lee, a spokesperson for the American Lung Association. “No one should have to choose between their job and their health.”
The case has garnered national attention and is being closely watched by workers and health advocates across the country. If the workers are successful in their appeal, it could set a precedent for other casinos and public spaces to follow suit and ban smoking altogether.
The Appellate Division is expected to hear the case in the coming months, and a ruling is anticipated by the end of the year. In the meantime, the workers continue to push for a smoke-free work environment, determined to protect their health and well-being.