A large advocacy group in Nevada is calling on state regulators to eliminate smoking in casinos due to what they are calling a “major blind spot” in providing a safe and healthy environment for both employees and patrons.
The group, known as Smoke-Free Gaming of Nevada, is urging the Nevada Gaming Control Board to implement a ban on smoking in all casinos across the state, citing the dangers of secondhand smoke exposure and the negative health effects it can have on both casino workers and customers.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, secondhand smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and known to cause cancer. In fact, studies have shown that nonsmokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke in casinos have an increased risk of developing lung cancer, heart disease, and other serious health conditions.
Despite these known risks, smoking remains a prevalent activity in casinos throughout Nevada, with many establishments allowing customers to smoke freely on the gaming floor. This has raised concerns among advocacy groups like Smoke-Free Gaming of Nevada, who argue that the health and well-being of casino employees and patrons should not be compromised for the sake of accommodating smokers.
In a statement, the group emphasized the need for Nevada regulators to prioritize public health and safety by implementing a smoking ban in all casinos. They pointed to the success of other states, such as New Jersey and Illinois, which have already implemented smoking bans in casinos and have seen positive results in terms of improved air quality and decreased health risks for workers and customers.
Furthermore, the group argued that eliminating smoking in casinos would not only benefit public health but also create a more enjoyable and welcoming environment for all patrons, including those who do not smoke or prefer to gamble in a smoke-free setting.
As the debate over smoking in casinos continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Nevada regulators will respond to the calls for a smoking ban. However, with the health and safety of casino workers and patrons at stake, advocates like Smoke-Free Gaming of Nevada are hopeful that state officials will take action to eliminate this “major blind spot” in providing a safe and healthy gaming environment for all.
