Posted on: December 13, 2023, 03:48h.
Last updated on: December 12, 2023, 01:54h.
A labor union representing table game dealers in Atlantic City supports state legislation to make casinos smoke-free.
The United Auto Workers (UAW) represents dealers at Caesars, Bally’s, and Tropicana. These workers are currently exposed to secondhand smoke, a condition of their employment.
Shawn Fain, the international president of the UAW, has backed state efforts to end the Atlantic City casino smoking loophole.
Fain expressed concern for the thousands of UAW members exposed to the toxic harms of secondhand smoke and believes that worker safety must be the top priority for all employers in the state.
In Atlantic City, smoking is currently allowed in designated areas within casinos.
Divisive Issue
Efforts are underway to change legislation allowing casino smoking in Atlantic City. Legislation reflecting this change has bipartisan support but is currently facing some obstacles in the State House.
State lawmakers are considering input from casinos that argue a smoking ban will negatively affect gaming and could result in the loss of an estimated 2,500 jobs. The labor union representing resort workers in Atlantic City supports the casinos’ position.
Grassroots Movement
Casino workers from various unions, including UAW, have expressed concerns about the impact of secondhand smoke on their health. A grassroots organization called Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects has been pushing for a smoke-free workplace for almost two decades.
The workers’ grassroots movement has been vocal about the need to prioritize worker safety and health in all workplaces, including casinos. UAW President Fain echoes these sentiments.