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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A heated debate unfolded in front of the Pennsylvania Senate Community, Economic, and Recreational Development Committee last week as lawmakers, casino industry representatives, and skill game advocates clashed over the potential regulation of so-called “skill games.” The controversial terminals, resembling slot machines but requiring player skill, have flooded bars, clubs, gas stations, and convenience stores across the state.

Proposed Bill Sparks Debate Over Pennsylvania Skill Games Regulation

Skill games, often branded as “Pennsylvania Skill,” have become lifelines for small businesses, especially during the pandemic, according to proponents like Pace-O-Matic (POM), the Georgia-based gaming developer behind these terminals. However, the state’s commercial gaming industry claims these unregulated machines are cleverly designed slot machines, bypassing state gaming laws and stealing patrons from casinos.

In May, Senate Bill 706 was introduced, aiming to regulate and tax skill games. The bill, coauthored by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, proposes limiting the number of skill games in businesses and imposing a 16% state tax on their earnings. During the meeting with the Pennsylvania Senate Community, Economic, and Recreational Development Committee casino representatives argued that this bill falls short of protecting consumers and the state’s regulated gambling industry, which contributes significantly to the state’s revenue.

Pennsylvania Skill Games Pit Businesses Against State’s Regulated Casinos

Eric Schippers, Senior Vice President of Penn Entertainment, expressed concerns before the Senate committee, emphasizing that the proliferation of skill games jeopardizes the state’s gaming tax benefits, capital investments, jobs, and economic development. He pointed out that these unregulated games poach players from casinos since they are more accessible and often located closer to home.

Representatives from Parx Casino and Live! Casino echoed these concerns, emphasizing the lack of consumer safeguards in skill gaming machines. Unlike regulated casino slots, these games are not monitored for fair play or mandated to adhere to a minimum payout rate. Skill games also lack stringent age verification measures, raising concerns about underage gambling.

Skill game proponents, represented by Michael Barley, chief public affairs officer for POM, argued for the industry’s monitoring and taxation. Barley suggested that the decline in casino slot play might be attributed to the state’s 2017 legalization of online gambling rather than skill games.

Paul Goldean, CEO of POM, highlighted the significant benefits skill games provide to small businesses and nonprofits. The Senate committee did not reach a decision on SB 706, indicating that further deliberations will be necessary. The future of skill games in Pennsylvania remains uncertain, with ongoing legal battles and legislative debates shaping the landscape of the state’s gambling industry.

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