Atlantic City casino workers have voiced their discontent with Gov. Phil Murphy‘s stance on the smoking ban proposal. The governor’s comments during News 12’s “Ask Gov. Murphy” program stirred controversy among members of the Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) group, who vehemently oppose his assertion that there are valid arguments on both sides of the issue.

Casino Workers and Industry Debate Escalates Over Smoking Ban Advocacy

During the program, Gov. Murphy acknowledged the differing viewpoints within the casino industry regarding the proposed ban. He highlighted the concerns raised by the United Auto Workers (UAW), representing dealers, who advocate for the ban citing the discomfort caused by patrons smoking in close proximity. 

Conversely, he pointed out the reservations expressed by Local 54 of Unite Here, another prominent union, fearing adverse impacts on business if the ban were to be implemented.

Responding to the governor’s remarks, Pete Naccarelli, co-founder of CEASE, emphasized the lack of parity in the debate. He criticized Gov. Murphy for according legitimacy to what he termed as “casino industry scare tactics,” which he believes are fueled by unsubstantiated claims. 

Naccarelli asserted that independent research, based on current data, indicates that casinos could actually experience enhanced revenue in a smoke-free environment. He called upon Gov. Murphy to exhibit leadership in safeguarding the well-being of workers, stressing that no one should be compelled to compromise their health for the sake of employment.

Atlantic City Casino Workers’ Lawsuit Faces Setback Amid Hearing Postponement

CEASE, in collaboration with UAW Region 9, has taken legal action against Gov. Murphy and the state health commissioner, contesting the exemption granted to casinos from the Smoke-Free Air Act of 2006. A court hearing to address the matter has been scheduled for May 13, underscoring the escalating tensions surrounding the issue.

The postponement of the anticipated hearing for the lawsuit seeking a smoking ban in Atlantic City casinos, filed by workers represented by CEASE and the UAW union, presents a setback in their efforts for safer workplaces. 

Pete Naccarelli previously expressed frustration over the delay, highlighting the continued health risks faced by thousands of workers. Despite opposition from the Casino Association of New Jersey, workers remain determined to pursue a comprehensive ban, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding health and constitutional rights.

Workers in Atlantic City casinos, represented by the UAW, resorted to legal action by filing the lawsuit challenging the exemption that allows smoking in gambling establishments, arguing it violates equal protection under the law. 

This move reflects ongoing efforts to address concerns about workplace safety amid the industry’s resistance to banning smoking, sparking similar campaigns in other states such as Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Kansas, and Virginia, and drawing attention to the broader issue of workers’ rights in the gaming sector.

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The anticipated hearing for the lawsuit filed by Atlantic City casino workers seeking a smoking ban has been postponed, marking a significant setback in their ongoing fight for safer working conditions. Initially scheduled for April 25, the hearing has been delayed by two weeks following a request from the New Jersey Attorney General’s office.

Lawsuit Delay Heightens Battle Against Smoking in Atlantic City Casinos

This delay comes amidst a longstanding effort by the Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) and the United Auto Workers (UAW) union to challenge the exemption allowing smoking in Atlantic City casinos. Their lawsuit contends that the exemption violates the principle of equal protection under the law and is unconstitutional.

Expressing frustration over the delay, Pete Naccarelli, co-founder of CEASE, highlighted the continued exposure of tens of thousands of casino workers to hazardous secondhand smoke. He emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue, asserting that the current environment not only poses dangers but also infringes upon workers’ constitutional rights.

The postponement of the hearing adds another layer of complexity to an already contentious issue. Workers, represented by the UAW, have long advocated for a smoking ban in casinos, citing concerns about their health and safety. 

Similar campaigns in other states such as Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Kansas, and Virginia have underscored the broader significance of this issue, resonating with workers across the country.

Casinos Maintain Stance Against Smoking Prohibition

Recent financial reports revealing a downturn in physical visits to Atlantic City’s casinos have heightened concerns. However, workers and union leaders assert that implementing a smoking ban is imperative to safeguard the well-being of both employees and customers, viewing it as a crucial step toward addressing the city’s existing challenges.

Earlier this year, Sen. John Burzichelli presented a bill aimed at addressing the grievances of both workers and the casino sector. However, the proposed legislation was heavily skewed in favor of casinos, leading workers to advocate for a comprehensive ban to reject it. 

Despite growing calls for a smoking ban, the Casino Association of New Jersey remains steadfast in its opposition, citing apprehensions regarding its potential impact on competitiveness with neighboring states. Nevertheless, workers are resolute in their pursuit of change through legal means. The quest for improved working conditions has struck a chord across New Jersey, garnering widespread public backing.

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After years of unsuccessful attempts to persuade lawmakers to ban smoking in Atlantic City casinos, workers have taken a new approach: filing a lawsuit to challenge a law that exempts casinos from indoor smoking bans. The lawsuit argues that the exemption for casinos violates the principle of equal protection under the law and seeks to have it acknowledged as unconstitutional.

The Legal Action Escalates an Ongoing Issue

The United Auto Workers (UAW), representing workers at Bally’s, Caesars, and Tropicana casinos, joined by a group of casino workers opposed to smoking in gambling halls, filed a lawsuit in state Superior Court challenging New Jersey’s indoor clean air law. This law, enacted 18 years ago, prohibits smoking in most indoor workplaces but makes an exception for casinos.

At a rally outside the courthouse where the lawsuit was filed, UAW president Shawn Fain noted that such drastic action was only necessary because of the industry’s unwillingness to address the concerns of Atlantic City casino workers regarding their work safety as they must regularly contend with the proven dangers of second-hand smoking.

This legislation was supposed to protect everyone from the dangers of second-hand smoke. But somehow, our casino workers have been asked to roll the dice.

Shawn Fain, UAW president

The issue of smoking in casinos has sparked controversy not only in Atlantic City but also in other states where workers have raised concerns about second-hand smoke. Similar campaigns are underway in Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Kansas, and Virginia. Proponents of the ban argue that banning smoking would not affect revenues but would tremendously improve casino staff’s quality of life.

Casinos Remain Opposed to a Smoking Ban

Recent revenue reports showing a decline in in-person visits to Atlantic City casinos have raised further alarm among workers and union leaders. They argue that a smoking ban is necessary to protect the health of workers and patrons alike and would constitute a vital step towards resolving the challenges facing the resort city.

State Senator John Burzichelli introduced a bill earlier this year that would address some of the concerns of workers and the casino industry. However, the proposed legislation heavily favored casinos, causing workers pushing for a complete ban to reject this proposal, insisting on improved measures to protect their health and safety.

The Casino Association of New Jersey opposes a smoking ban, citing concerns about its impact on competitiveness with neighboring states. However, workers are determined to push for change through legal action. The plight for safer working conditions has resonated across New Jersey, winning public support. While the lawsuit’s chances remain unclear, the UAW will explore every option to protect the casino worker community.

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The debate about smoking on the casino floor in Atlantic City’s casinos has been ongoing for nearly two decades. Currently, a loophole in New Jersey’s Smoke-Free Air Act allows casinos to permit indoor smoking within an area of up to 25% of their gaming floors. In contrast, the Act prohibits smoking within public areas in the state with that sole exception.

While the debate about smoking is ongoing, a new bill calls to keep the current restriction for smoking to occur within 25% of the casino gaming floors, adding a few conditions. The bill, S2651, which non-smoking activists call maintaining the status quo, is supported by Sen. John Burzichelli and was introduced in the Senate earlier this week. The proposal was referred to the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee for further review and consideration.

While this is a new bill, in its majority, it keeps the current rules about indoor smoking for casinos in Atlantic City. As noted, the bill would keep the existing restriction that limits the casinos from indoor smoking within up to 25% of their gaming floors.

However, under S2651, smoking would be permitted within specially designated smoking areas that offer slots and are located more than 15 feet away from table games with dealers. Additionally, the proposal would enable casinos to permit smoking within designated smoking areas that are separated from the other areas within the casino floor. Dealers who would be working in such areas will have to confirm if they agree to be assigned to such a position.

Anti-smoking Group Criticizes the Newly Proposed Bill

Burzichelli backed his proposal by explaining that it would prevent casinos from closing. He was quoted on the matter by the Associated Press, explaining: “It’s about what we can do to keep casinos open, and how do we get it right.” Additionally, Burzichelli warned: “Losing one casino means thousands of jobs lost.”

The proposal immediately captured the attention of the anti-smoking group, Casino Employees Against Smoking Harmful Effects (CEASE). The group issued a statement claiming Burzichelli’s proposal was “copied and pasted.” In their statement, CEASE explained: “This bill would retain the same level of smoking as is currently permitted and will not decrease in any way the amount of exposure workers have to secondhand smoke.”

The anti-smoking group reiterated that the only proposal that may receive sufficient support is a rival bill that prohibits indoor smoking completely. Previously, Gov. Phil Murphy hinted at his intention to sign such a proposal, should it get enough traction and support. Speaking about the Governor’s support, CEASE predicted that Burzichelli’s bill is unlikely to progress.

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Atlantic City, known for its vibrant casinos and bustling nightlife, has long been a hub for those seeking their luck at the card tables or slot machines. However, behind the glitz and glamour lies a persistent issue that has been plaguing the city’s workforce for years: secondhand smoke.

Advocates Emphasize Worker Well-being Over Financial Concerns 

A group of casino dealers, led by individuals like Pete Naccarelli, Nicole Vitola, and Lamont White, have spearheaded a movement called Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) aiming to outlaw smoking within the confines of the city’s gambling establishments. Their efforts have gained momentum, with workers coming together to demand a healthier work environment.

For Naccarelli, who has spent 27 years in the casino industry, dealing with the constant presence of secondhand smoke has taken its toll. He describes dealing with a table full of smokers as “torture,” highlighting the physical and mental strain it inflicts on him and his colleagues, as reported by the HuffPost. 

Despite the risks associated with prolonged exposure to smoke, the current regulations permit smoking on 25% of the gaming floor, leaving many workers feeling helpless and unprotected.

The push for a smoking ban in Atlantic City’s casinos is not a new endeavor. Similar initiatives have been met with resistance from casino operators, citing potential revenue losses and job cuts. 

However, advocates argue that the well-being of workers should take precedence over financial considerations. They stress the need for a comprehensive ban to ensure a smoke-free environment for all employees.

Labor Union Rifts Emerge Amid Atlantic City Smoking Ban Debate

The debate surrounding the smoking issue has also revealed rifts within the city’s labor unions. While some unions, like the United Auto Workers, have thrown their support behind the ban, others, such as Local 54, have expressed concerns about the economic implications. Despite differing opinions, workers remain united in their pursuit of a healthier workplace.

Legislators in Trenton have taken notice of the workers’ demands, with a bill to ban smoking in casinos making progress in the state Senate.

However, challenges remain as lobbying efforts intensify, reflecting the complex interplay between public health, economic interests, and political dynamics.

As the debate continues, casino workers like Naccarelli, Vitola, and White remain steadfast in their resolve to enact change. For them, it is not just about fighting for a smoke-free environment. It is about fighting for their lives. And as they rally for their cause, they hope that Atlantic City will soon become a beacon of progress in the ongoing battle against secondhand smoke.

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The ongoing battle over the future of smoking in Atlantic City’s casinos continues with a major victory for the proponents of the controversial smoking ban. However, the war is yet to be won.

The latest development saw an anti-casino smoking measure move forward after three years of intense discussions between pro-smoking and anti-smoking activists. The bill was now approved by the New Jersey Senate health committee, sparking hopes among the latter camp.

Following the advancement of the anti-casino smoking bill, a confrontation between the two camps erupted. People screamed at one another as anti-smoking activists rejoiced.

For reference, Atlantic City’s nine casinos can currently turn up to 25% of their gaming area into a smoking area. However, this means that employees responsible for that area must breathe cigarette smoke all shift long, exposing them to a variety of health problems.

Casino operators fear introducing a smoking ban as it may impact their business. Some believe that patrons who go outside to have a smoke may decide to call it a day. Others fear that fervent smokers will simply go to play in Philadelphia.

Because of that, operators have long been seeking a compromise, such as smoking rooms. However, this would still require employees to man said rooms.

In any case, the bill will now go to the Senate for a vote. In order for the measure to pass, an identical bill must also be approved by an Assembly committee and voted upon by the full chamber. Finally, it would be up to Governor Phil Murphy to sign the measure into law.

The Industry Says the Ban Would Be an “Economic Catastrophe”

Casino industry supporters conceded that smoking is harmful but warned that a smoking ban may, at the very least, lead to layoffs. Donna DeCaprio, president of the Local 54 of the Unite Here union, a group representing hospitality staff, warned that as many as 3,000 of the 50,000 casino jobs in the city could disappear.

DeCaprio also predicts the potential closure of three of Atlantic City’s casinos, saying that a total ban on smoking is going to result in an “economic catastrophe.”

However, Cynthia Hallett, president and CEO of Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights, pointed out that, according to polls, more people would be inclined to visit the city’s casinos. In addition, previous surveys have found no proof that a ban on smoking would hurt casino operators’ business.

Senator Shirley Turner, on the other hand, was firm that Americans shouldn’t be forced to choose between their job or their health.

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A project seeking to reduce the lanes of Atlantic Avenue in Atlantic City, New Jersey, is subject to a lawsuit filed by casino operators along with AtlantiCare. The legal claim was filed last year and recently gained traction with the city’s claims in support of the project labeled as “road diet.” The project proposes to reduce the lanes from four to two along Atlantic Avenue between New Hampshire and Boston Avenues.

Opponents of the road diet claimed that the city needs to secure approval from the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA), a non-profit organization that focuses on tourism in Atlantic City. Besides AtlantiCare, plaintiffs include Tropicana, Resorts, Bally’s, Hard Rock and Caesars. Considering that the CRDA oversees tourism in the city, the plaintiffs argued that they need to approve the proposed project as well.

Another major concern of the plaintiffs is that the road diet will result in traffic congestion. This, in turn, may obstruct emergency vehicles down Atlantic Avenue from reaching AtlantiCare’s emergency, putting lives in jeopardy.

Additionally, the lawsuit alleged that a comprehensive study about the impact on traffic of the project wasn’t conducted. Ultimately, the casinos along with AtlantiCare asked the court to enforce an injunction, temporarily stopping the road diet.

The City’s Defense Fights Back

The opposing side, the city, rejected the claims that the project needs the approval of the CRDA, as announced by the Press of Atlantic City. Last week, Richard Trenk, an attorney defending the city in the lawsuit, filed a brief, claiming that the plaintiffs misinterpreted the responsibilities of the CRDA outlining: “Thus, because no statute or regulation requires approval from CRDA, the City had no obligation to seek approval from CRDA.” What’s more, in its brief, the city’s defense argued that the project was accompanied by a traffic study that examined its impact on traffic.

Trenk also addressed the concerns related to the claim about delays of emergency vehicles caused by the reduction of the traffic lanes. He explained that experts in Atlantic City, in collaboration with the state and transportation agency examined the proposed project, confirming it wouldn’t impact the flow of emergency vehicles. “Thus, Plaintiff cannot demonstrate any genuine irreparable harm at stake,” explained the city’s brief.

The city’s defense asked the court to deny the requests listed within the lawsuit filed by AtlantiCare and the casino operators. The case is set to return to court on January 26, 2024, when each of the parties will present their arguments in front of Judge Michael Blee.

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Hard Rock Atlantic City is set to introduce its Unity loyal program today, allowing regular customers to benefit from a variety of promotions. The new program will replace the existing Wild Card program.

Unity is a loyalty scheme that is available across Hard Rock’s properties in North America. The unified scheme allows customers to enjoy the same benefits no matter which Unity-enabled venue in the region they visit.

While rates will vary depending on which Hard Rock property customers visit, they will be able to earn tier credits, comps and free play in all of the company’s properties. Hard Rock AC guests will now be able to download the mobile application and see what the fuss is all about.

Existing Wild Card members needn’t worry as they will be automatically onboarded to the new program. This seamless process will allow them to keep their existing tier points, balances and offers. While Wild Card members can change their card, they won’t be required to.

The transition from Wild Card to Unity was a gradual process in Atlantic City. The property onboarded some of its high-tier members last year and is now rolling out the program for all customers.

Players Can Earn Points in a Variety of Ways

The Unity program boasts four tiers, as follows:

The four tiers mirror the four Wild Card tiers (Premier, Elite, Royalty and X) and allow for an easy transition of existing consumers.

Hard Rock’s Unity program is available across 13 Hard Rock venues in North America, as well as at the Hard Rock Casino Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

The launch of Unity in Atlantic City comes in the wake of Hard Rock’s acquisition of WGames, which enabled the launch of Hard Rock Games. The latter is a social gaming platform that features a variety of free-to-play casino games. For reference, Hard Rock Games will also be integrated with the Unity program, allowing players to earn points they can later redeem at one of the company’s properties.

While players can play the Hard Rock Games at no cost, they can also enjoy a variety of paid offerings that allow them to earn points.

In other news, Hard Rock recently secured approval for its Kenosha property. A few days earlier, the company held a groundbreaking ceremony for its Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon.

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For nearly two decades, casinos in Atlantic City have been exempt from the statewide ban that prohibits smoking within public areas across New Jersey. The exemption in the New Jersey Smoke-Free Air Act enabled casino operators to allow indoor smoking for up to 25% of their gaming floors. During the pandemic, Atlantic City’s casinos banned indoor smoking temporarily. However, with the pandemic residing, indoor smoking was reinstated. Unlike other states where the temporary smoking ban became the new normal, operators in Atlantic City continue to fear the possible negative impact of such a measure.

Despite fears, one proposal that calls to close the existing smoking loophole in the legislation is gaining traction in New Jersey. Senate Bill 264 (SB 264) proposes the elimination of the smoking ban exemption that is applicable to casinos and simulcasting facilities. The bill’s primary sponsors are Joseph Vitale and Shirley Turner, but it is also co-sponsored by two dozen lawmakers.

The proposal marks the latest effort by lawmakers that want to put an end to the exemption of smoking for casinos. Enjoying bipartisan support, SB 264 gained traction recently after it was heard by the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee. Supporters of the proposal hope for it to gain further traction and those efforts come at a time when bills can advance at a faster pace ahead of January, which marks the expiration of the legislative session.

The latest progress comes after a hearing with the Assembly dating back to March. At the time, supporters of the new proposal, as well as opponents, were heard. Besides bipartisan support, the smoking ban is backed by Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE), a group that fights against smoking inside casinos.

Smoking Ban Opponents Voice Their Concerns

Despite the concerns about the impact of smoking on casino employees’ health, not everyone agrees with the proposed smoke ban in New Jersey. Groups against the smoking ban continue to claim that it may result in significant losses for casino operators. They claim that in turn, this can result in layoffs and reducing the number of employees.

Previously, Unite Here claimed that a smoking ban could have a devastating impact on Atlantic City’s casino sector. According to them, the implementation of a smoke ban may decrease gross gaming revenues for casinos by a staggering 11%.

Contradictory to anti-smoking groups, supporters of the smoke ban claimed that it wouldn’t have such a dire impact on the casino sector. Supporting this statement, the groups reiterated that a temporary ban imposed due to the pandemic did not hurt the sector.

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On November 15, a fierce fire erupted under the historic Atlantic City Boardwalk, threatening the entrance to the Resorts Casino Hotel. Despite the dramatic scene, no injuries were reported, and Resorts Casino Hotel successfully continued its operations, utilizing alternative entrances.

Resorts Casino Hotel President Thanks Firefighters for Swift Action

The fire, which ignited around 4 p.m., forced the temporary closure of two adjacent restaurants, with hopes of reopening later in the day, according to Fire Chief Scott Evans and Resorts President Mark Giannantonio. Black smoke billowed into the sky, accompanied by vivid orange flames beneath the Resorts Casino Hotel sign, creating a spectacle that drew onlookers, reported the Associated Press.

Aris Matos and his wife Michelle, diners from Shrewsbury, Pennsylvania, witnessed the unfolding drama from inside the casino. Matos recounted the unfolding situation, explaining that they had continued dining, and he observed the smoke intensifying. He mentioned seeing a restaurant worker rushing outside with a fire extinguisher in an attempt to suppress the flames. However, the worker returned to the restaurant, instructing everyone to evacuate due to the flames being too substantial.

Despite the severity of the two-alarm fire, involving 30 firefighters, it was brought under control within about 40 minutes. Fire Chief Evans deemed it a very serious situation, acknowledging the challenges faced by the firefighting team. 

Resorts Casino Hotel president Giannantonio expressed gratitude for the swift response of the fire department, preventing further damage to the iconic casino.

Atlantic City Casino Fire Sparks Ongoing Probe into Unknown Cause

The fire damaged the casino’s facade, including a melted canopy, with remnants dripping down near where firefighters cut away a section of the Boardwalk to access and extinguish the blaze. The cause of the fire remains undetermined, with investigations exploring possibilities such as electrical malfunctions or accidental ignition by individuals seeking shelter beneath the Boardwalk, a not-uncommon occurrence in Atlantic City.

While the cause of the fire remains a mystery, the city’s fire department confirmed that the casino floor remained open, assuring the public that business operations were uninterrupted. The incident prompted brief evacuations of nearby businesses, but no injuries were reported. Investigations into the origins of the blaze are ongoing.

In other news, New Jersey online casinos, including Resorts Casino Hotel, are seeking a ten-year license extension, but current legislation only permits a two-year extension. Despite concerns among license holders about the short duration and the challenges it poses in a competitive market, an Assembly committee voted for the two-year extension, emphasizing the need for vigilance in the industry. 

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