A judge has ruled to allow smoking to continue in Atlantic City casinos, a decision that maintains the status quo for the city’s nine casinos but disappoints workers advocating for a smoke-free environment.
Superior Court Judge Patrick Bartels dismissed the lawsuit filed by casino workers, who have been pushing for a smoking ban in their workplaces for four years.
The ruling was seen as a victory for the casinos, which argued that a smoking ban could lead to significant job losses and reduced revenue.
Commenting on the decision, Mark Giannantonio, President of Resorts Casino and the Casino Association of New Jersey, stated: “We are gratified by the court’s decision to dismiss the plaintiff’s complaint and deny its attempt to change the Smoke-Free Air Act outside of the legislative process.
“We look forward to continuing to work with stakeholders towards a solution that addresses the health concerns of our employees, while also protecting the collective interest and well-being of the entire Atlantic City workforce.”
Anti-smoking advocates, however, vowed to continue their fight for smoke-free workplaces, highlighting widespread public support for a ban and urging lawmakers to act.
Lamont White, a Borgata dealer and a leader of the anti-smoking movement, stated: “This fight is far from over. While today’s outcome is disappointing, our determination remains unshaken.
“It’s time to make things right for the thousands of us workers still working and living without the same protection afforded to every other New Jerseyan.”
The debate over smoking in Atlantic City casinos is part of a broader nationwide discussion, as workers in other states – including Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Kansas and Virginia – wage similar campaigns for smoke-free workplaces.
As the debate continues, the future of smoking in casinos remains uncertain, with both sides preparing for further legal and legislative battles.
