In a controversial decision, the New Jersey Supreme Court has declined to bar smoking in Atlantic City casinos, a move that has sparked outrage among anti-smoking advocates and public health officials.
The ruling, handed down by a 4-3 vote, comes after years of legal battles between casino owners and anti-smoking groups who argue that allowing smoking in casinos poses a significant health risk to both employees and patrons.
The decision is seen as a major victory for the casino industry, which has long fought to maintain its smoking-friendly policies in order to attract visitors and boost revenue. Proponents of the decision argue that banning smoking in casinos would hurt the industry’s bottom line and lead to job losses.
“This is a win for common sense and for the economic well-being of Atlantic City,” said Steve Callender, president of the Casino Association of New Jersey. “Banning smoking in our casinos would have been a death sentence for many of our businesses.”
But opponents of the ruling argue that the health risks associated with smoking in casinos cannot be ignored. According to the American Lung Association, exposure to secondhand smoke in casinos can increase the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory illnesses.
“We are extremely disappointed by the court’s decision,” said Michael Seilback, the Association’s national assistant vice president for state public policy. “Allowing smoking in casinos puts the health of casino workers and patrons at risk, and we will continue to fight for a smoke-free environment in these establishments.”
The ruling is sure to reignite the debate over smoking in public places, with anti-smoking advocates vowing to continue their fight to ban smoking in Atlantic City casinos. But for now, smokers can continue to light up while they try their luck at the card tables and slot machines.
It remains to be seen how the decision will impact the overall health and well-being of casino employees and patrons in Atlantic City, but one thing is for certain: the battle over smoking in casinos is far from over.