In a controversial decision, the New Jersey Casino Control Commission has ruled to permit smoking in Atlantic City casinos once again, overturning a temporary ban that was put in place due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The ruling has sparked mixed reactions from both casino patrons and employees, with many workers expressing concern over the potential health risks they now face.
“We don’t see the need to have to risk our lives just so people can smoke inside the casinos,” said Maria Rodriguez, a housekeeper at one of the casinos. “We’ve already been through so much with the pandemic, and now we have to deal with secondhand smoke as well. It’s just not fair to us.”
According to the ruling, casinos will be required to designate certain areas for smoking, with ventilation systems in place to help minimize the spread of secondhand smoke. However, many workers are skeptical that these measures will be enough to protect their health.
“I don’t trust that the ventilation system is going to be effective at keeping us safe,” said John Smith, a dealer at another casino. “We’re already in such close contact with customers all day long, and now we have to worry about breathing in smoke as well. It’s a recipe for disaster.”
The decision to allow smoking in casinos comes at a time when COVID-19 cases are once again on the rise in New Jersey, prompting fears of another potential surge in cases. Some employees have questioned the timing of the ruling, arguing that it puts their health at unnecessary risk.
“I understand that the casinos want to attract more customers and bring in more revenue, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of our health and safety,” said Rodriguez. “We’re already overstressed and overworked as it is, and now we have to deal with the added risk of exposure to secondhand smoke. It’s just not right.”
Despite their concerns, many workers feel that they have little choice but to continue working in the casinos, as they rely on their jobs to support themselves and their families. However, they hope that casino management will take their concerns seriously and do everything in their power to protect their health and well-being.
“We deserve to have a safe and healthy work environment, just like everyone else,” said Smith. “I hope that the casinos will listen to our concerns and take steps to ensure that we’re not putting ourselves at unnecessary risk. Our lives are on the line here, and we should be able to work without fear of getting sick.”