In a surprising turn of events, a major union representing workers in Atlantic City casinos has asked a judge to dismiss an anti-smoking lawsuit that is targeting the city’s gaming establishments. The lawsuit, which was filed by a group of non-smokers who claim they have been subjected to harmful secondhand smoke in the casinos, has gained widespread attention in recent months.
The union, which represents thousands of casino employees in Atlantic City, argues that the lawsuit is frivolous and without merit. In a statement released to The Edwardsville Intelligencer, the union stated that the lawsuit “threatens the livelihoods of our members and the economic viability of the city’s gaming industry.”
The union’s decision to intervene in the lawsuit has sparked controversy among both anti-smoking advocates and casino workers. Some non-smokers who have been affected by secondhand smoke in the casinos have expressed disappointment in the union’s stance, while others have voiced support for the union’s efforts to protect jobs in the gaming industry.
The lawsuit, which was filed in state court in Atlantic City, seeks damages for the plaintiffs who claim they have suffered health problems as a result of exposure to secondhand smoke in the casinos. The plaintiffs are seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
In response to the lawsuit, the union has argued that the plaintiffs have failed to prove that they have suffered any actual harm from secondhand smoke in the casinos. The union also contends that the casinos have taken steps to improve air quality and limit exposure to secondhand smoke, including installing ventilation systems and designated smoking areas.
The judge overseeing the case is expected to rule on the union’s request to dismiss the lawsuit in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the controversy surrounding the lawsuit continues to fuel debate within the Atlantic City community.
As the legal battle over smoking in Atlantic City casinos plays out in the courtroom, both sides are bracing for a potential showdown that could have far-reaching implications for the city’s gaming industry and its workforce. Stay tuned to The Edwardsville Intelligencer for the latest updates on this developing story.
