Published on: December 3, 2024, 10:01h.
Last edited on: December 3, 2024, 10:14h.
Atlantic City has become a battleground for two unions representing casino employees with differing views on indoor tobacco use.
Unite Here Local 54 represents nongaming workers at the nine resorts down the shore. Its members are employed in various roles such as housekeepers, bartenders, waitstaff, cooks, bellmen, doormen, and other service jobs.
Local 54 President Donna DeCaprio believes that allowing cigarettes and cigars on gaming floors is crucial to prevent gamblers from going to casinos in Philadelphia. The casinos in Atlantic City also support this stance, arguing that a smoking ban would lead to revenue loss and substantial job cuts.
On the other hand, United Auto Workers Region 9, representing employees like table game dealers who are more exposed to secondhand smoke, prioritizes employee health over casino profits.
Union Dispute
New Jersey lawmakers, from the Democratic party, have delayed passing legislation to amend the 2006 Smokefree Air Act, which permits casinos to designate 25% of their space for smoking. Despite previous support for smoking ban bills, Democratic leaders have postponed these measures at the request of the casinos.
The Casino Association of New Jersey successfully petitioned to delay the antismoking bills to explore compromises, such as creating enclosed smoking rooms for willing employees.
UAW argues that worker health is at stake, as thousands of employees face health risks daily. Ray Jensen from Region 9 criticizes DeCaprio’s stance, urging her to step down.
Jensen expressed his disappointment, stating, “She should be ashamed of herself. She should hand in her union card.”
Despite the criticism, DeCaprio remains firm in her position.
She emphasized the need for a balance that protects worker health while preserving jobs, highlighting the risk of job losses with casino closures if a smoking ban were to be implemented.
Local 54 has experienced a significant decline in membership over the years, while Region 9 represents various casino employees like dealers, slot technicians, and hosts.
Atlantic City Casino Industry
Atlantic City casino profits dropped in the third quarter of 2024, with only Hard Rock and Caesars reporting higher earnings compared to the previous year.
Despite the decline, all nine casinos remained profitable, with iGaming and online sports betting helping to offset losses from in-person gaming.
The industry continues to face challenges, but online platforms provide a lifeline in an evolving market.