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Read Full BioRhode Island lawmakers have approved legislation that will extend its indoor workplace smoking ban to now include casinos.
In doing so, it has put an end to Rhode Island’s long-standing stance on the exemption for retail casinos and in-person gambling venues.
Senate Bill 0188, which still requires sign-off by Governor Dan McKee, comes after years of pressure from casino employees and public health campaigners.
The bill, pushed through by Democratic Sen. V. Susan Sosnowski, did include an amendment to permit enclosed, ventilated smoking lounges in casinos to accommodate patrons who smoke.
It also pushed back the legislative implementation until July 1, 2027, in a considered compromise to minimize revenue losses as casino operators make the necessary modifications.
“Everyone deserves to breathe clean air in the workplace,” Sosnowski said, reinforcing the state’s duty to protect Rhode Island casino employees’ working conditions.
Notably, Sosnowski’s original bill set about banning all indoor smoking outright, nevertheless, revisions were made following pushback from Bally’s Corporation.
Bally’s – which operates Twin River Lincoln Resort and Tiverton Casino & Sportsbook in Rhode Island – argued that a total smoking ban would deter clientele who smoke from visiting, which could dramatically impact its state revenues.
Does Rhode Island Reflect a Broader Shift In Consumer Preference?
Last week’s development in Rhode Island could open the door to other jurisdictions following suit as other states face similar dilemmas trying to balance casino health policies with revenue sustainability.
New Jersey has gone back-and-forth on a smoking ban, with two labor unions representing casino workers taking opposing stances. One believes that it’s important for workers health to have a smoke-free place of work, whereas the other fears job losses due to revenue decreases.
Some analysts say there is a growing demand for smoke-free environments, which might actively encourage new patrons into casinos.
This is a concept Royal Caribbean Cruises has already deployed, recently unveiling a new non-smoking casino floor, citing passenger feedback and a shift in consumer preferences.
Bally’s itself had already anticipated this trend, having announced an expansion to its non-smoking casino section at Twin River Lincoln early last year.
However, the company stopped short of enforcing a full ban on smoking for fear of alienating its existing and new clientele base who smoked.
