In a recent press release, the anti-smoking advocacy group Smoke-Free Casinos refuted claims made by Nevada lawmaker Steve Yeager regarding the prevalence of smoking in US casinos. Yeager, a Democrat serving in the Nevada Assembly, recently stated that smoking is not as common in US casinos as some may think.
However, Smoke-Free Casinos, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting smoke-free environments in gaming establishments, argues that smoking is still a significant issue in many casinos across the country. The group pointed to research showing that secondhand smoke exposure in casinos can be up to 50 times higher than in other indoor spaces.
“We appreciate Assemblyman Yeager’s efforts to reduce smoking in casinos, but the reality is that smoking remains a major problem in many gaming establishments,” said Dr. Amanda Lawson, a spokesperson for Smoke-Free Casinos. “The health risks associated with secondhand smoke are well-documented, and it’s important for policymakers to prioritize the health and safety of both employees and patrons in these venues.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), exposure to secondhand smoke can cause a number of serious health issues, including lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory infections. The CDC also reports that there is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke, and that even brief exposure can be harmful to health.
In recent years, some US casinos have taken steps to create smoke-free environments for their guests and employees. However, Smoke-Free Casinos argues that more needs to be done to protect public health and reduce the prevalence of smoking in gaming establishments nationwide.
“We urge lawmakers at both the state and federal levels to consider implementing comprehensive smoke-free policies in all US casinos,” Dr. Lawson said. “By creating smoke-free environments, we can ensure that everyone can enjoy the gaming experience without compromising their health.”
As the debate over smoking in US casinos continues, it remains to be seen whether policymakers will take action to address this ongoing public health issue. Smoke-Free Casinos will continue to advocate for smoke-free policies in gaming establishments, with the goal of protecting the health and well-being of all individuals who visit these venues.
