The push for smoke-free casinos is gaining momentum as major companies face imminent shareholder votes.
Advocates are closely watching these pivotal decisions, particularly from the shareholders of Wynn Resorts, Boyd Gaming, Caesars Entertainment and Penn Entertainment.
These votes could potentially reshape the landscape of casino gaming environments.
Smoke-Free Casino Discussion Could Be Part of Upcoming Shareholder Votes
The American Nonsmokers’ Rights Foundation (ANRF), in collaboration with Trinity Health, has filed shareholder resolutions urging casino companies to examine the economic advantages of adopting smoke-free policies.
According to a news release from ANRF, these votes will begin on April 30 and continue into the summer months.
Currently, the Park MGM stands alone as the only smoke-free casino on the Las Vegas Strip, a policy that encompasses the entire resort. Interestingly, this casino is under the umbrella of MGM Resorts International, which isn't directly involved in the upcoming votes.
The ANRF and Trinity Health are actively engaging with other prominent casino companies, such as Churchill Downs, MGM Resorts International and Bally's Corporation, to encourage a review of their smoking policies.
Smoking Policies in Casinos: A Historical Perspective
The tradition of smoking within casinos has a long-standing history, deeply embedded in the culture of gambling establishments.
Over the years, while societal attitudes towards smoking have shifted, many casinos have continued to allow smoking on their premises, driven by concerns over potential revenue loss.
Of the 27 states with commercial casinos or racinos, only 11 have fully smoke-free gaming floors, they include:
- Illinois
- Massachusetts
- Ohio
- South Dakota
- Maryland
- Maine
- Delaware
- Florida
- Nebraska
- New York
- Colorado
Some states are still working on it. For example, there's an ongoing battle in New Jersey to make its casinos smoke-free.
Meanwhile. five others states allow casino smoking, but only in designated areas, including:
- Michigan
- Pennsylvania
- Louisiana
- Rhode Island
- Missouri
But some Michigan casinos have decided to eliminate smoking altogether within the past year.
Boyd Gaming, Caesars Entertainment and Penn Entertainment permit indoor smoking in states where regulations allow it, reflecting a persistent adherence to conventional practices.
Casinos have historically offered separate smoke-free areas as a compromise, yet health experts argue that these attempts fall short in protecting patrons and employees from the dangers of secondhand smoke.
Health Implications of Secondhand Smoke
A recent study from the National Institutes of Health revealed alarming findings, showing that airborne particulates linked to secondhand smoke were approximately 5½ times higher in casinos that allowed smoking compared to smoke-free establishments.
This highlights significant health risks for both employees and visitors.
Despite the evidence pointing to the hazardous impact of secondhand smoke, Las Vegas casinos expose tens of thousands of employees and millions of tourists annually to elevated PM2.5 levels, a measure of fine particulate pollutants, which are substantially higher in smoking-permitted gaming areas.
Smoke-Free Casinos Could Become Commonplace
Advocates argue that the only effective method to mitigate secondhand smoke exposure is the prohibition of smoking in all indoor spaces.
As the impending shareholder votes approach, there's increased pressure on casino companies to reconsider their policies in favor of creating healthier, smoke-free gaming environments.
The outcomes of these shareholder meetings may well determine whether the industry takes a significant step towards aligning with evolving public health standards and customer preferences for smoke-free spaces.
The decision by these major casino stakeholders could herald a new era in the American gaming industry's approach to indoor smoking.
Playing sweepstakes casino games or gambling at an online casino in states where it's legalized offers you the unique advantage of always maintaining a smoke-free environment. Unlike traditional casinos, you can enjoy these games in the comfort of your own space, free from unwanted cigarette smoke. Or, if you are a smoker, you can if you desire.
However, it's important to remember that when you gamble, you should set limits and always do so responsibly. Managing your gambling habits ensures a safe and enjoyable experience every time.
