Starting Monday, all gaming properties owned by the Sault Tribe, in Michigan, will become smoke-free.
Kewadin Casinos CEO Allen Kerridge said in a press release, “This policy change aligns with our mission to create the very best experience possible for all our guests. We’ve heard from many customers and team members who feel a smoke-free environment is the right step forward. We’re excited to meet their needs and provide an even more welcoming atmosphere at all our properties.”
The Kewadin Casinos are owned by the federally recognized Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians. The decision reflects the Tribe's commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of customers and employees.
The primary Kewadin Casino is in Sault Ste. Marie, with additional locations on tribal land in Christmas, Hessel, Manistique and St. Ignace.
Outdoor Smoking Areas Will Be Offered
All Kewadin Casinos will offer designated outdoor areas with seating for smokers, ensuring convenient access for those who wish to step outside. As part of the transition to a smoke-free environment, renovations will soon begin. These improvements include HVAC and duct cleaning to ensure a fresh and welcoming atmosphere.
While the transition may require some adjustment, the Tribe believes the smoke-free environment will foster a more inviting atmosphere.
This is an evolving trend as casinos remain one of the few U.S. workplaces that allow customers to smoke. Most Caesars properties, for instance, allow players to smoke on the casino floor and book hotel rooms that permit smoking.
List of Smoke Free Casinos Growing
According to the Smoke Free Casino and Gaming Property Directory, there are nearly 1,100 U.S. casinos and other gaming properties with 100% smoke-free indoor air policies. That number includes at least 151 Indian gaming facilities operating smoke-free by their own sovereign policy.
Kansas casino workers are also fighting for a smoke-free policy. They want smoking banned in all state-owned casinos.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have developed a specialized approach to monitor potential health risks in gaming venues.
Through its State Tobacco Activities Tracking and Evaluation (STATE) System, the CDC tracks three main types of gaming locations:
- Casinos
- Racinos (racetrack casinos)
- Bingo Halls
The STATE System cites a study conducted on Pennsylvania casinos, which found that half of the sampled casinos had air pollution levels high enough to pose a risk for cardiovascular disease after just two hours of exposure.
