Atlantic City, New Jersey – Workers in Atlantic City’s bustling casino industry have filed a lawsuit against their employers, alleging that the toxic secondhand smoke they are exposed to on a daily basis is creating a “poisonous” workplace environment. The lawsuit, which was filed in the Superior Court of New Jersey, claims that the workers’ employers are violating state labor laws by failing to protect employees from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.
The workers involved in the lawsuit, many of whom have been employed in the casino industry for years, say they have suffered serious health issues as a result of their exposure to secondhand smoke. These health issues include respiratory problems, asthma, and other lung-related illnesses. Some workers have even been diagnosed with serious conditions such as lung cancer.
“I have worked in the casino industry for over 20 years, and the effects of secondhand smoke on my health have been devastating,” said one of the workers involved in the lawsuit. “I have had to miss work due to severe respiratory problems, and I worry about the long-term impact on my health.”
The lawsuit is seeking compensation for the workers’ medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It also calls for the casinos to implement stricter smoking policies to protect employees from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.
The state of New Jersey has weighed in on the issue, with Governor Phil Murphy stressing the importance of protecting workers from hazardous workplace conditions. However, he also highlighted the significant role that the casino industry plays in the state’s economy, particularly in terms of tax revenue.
“In Atlantic City, the casino industry is a major driver of economic growth and job creation,” said Governor Murphy. “We need to strike a balance between protecting the health and safety of workers and ensuring that the industry continues to thrive and generate much-needed tax revenue for the state.”
The lawsuit has sparked a heated debate among casino workers, with some supporting the efforts to create a safer workplace environment, while others express concerns about the potential impact on the industry’s bottom line. Many workers have called on the casinos to implement stricter smoking policies, such as designated smoking areas or smoke-free zones.
As the lawsuit continues to make its way through the court system, workers in Atlantic City’s casino industry are hopeful that their voices will be heard and that changes will be made to create a healthier and safer workplace environment.
“We deserve to work in an environment that is free from harmful toxins like secondhand smoke,” said one worker. “Our health should not be sacrificed for the sake of profit.”
