A bill introduced by Allegheny County Rep. Dan Frankel aims to close the smoking exemption in Pennsylvania’s Clean Indoor Air Act of 2008, allowing smoking in casinos and certain commercial facilities. The legislation targets not only casinos but also other venues like private clubs, hotels, and bars. Health experts and advocates support the bill, emphasizing the benefits of a smoke-free environment for public health.
Legislation Reintroduced:
Allegheny County Rep. Dan Frankel has reintroduced House Bill 1657 to eliminate the exemption allowing smoking in Pennsylvania casinos. The bill targets various commercial facilities, aiming to close existing loopholes in the Clean Indoor Air Act.
Push for Smoke-Free Casinos:
The inspiration for the legislation comes from the temporary relief from indoor smoking during the COVID-19 pandemic when mask mandates were in place. The bill seeks to ban smoking not only in casinos but also in other venues like private clubs, hotels, and bars.
Support and Advocacy:
Health experts and advocacy groups, including the PA Coalition representing organizations like Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights and American Heart Association, support the bill. They emphasize the benefits of smoke-free environments for public health and challenge the belief that banning smoking would lead to a loss of customers.
Economic Impact and Counterarguments:
While some argue that a complete smoking ban could lead to job losses and a decline in customers, Representative Frankel disputes this claim. He suggests that a growing body of evidence indicates that smoke-free environments attract more customers rather than fewer.
Legislative Process and Optimism:
The bill’s legislative process involves circulating the idea among colleagues, introduction in the House, committee review, and a vote on the House floor. Representative Frankel is optimistic about the bill’s passage, emphasizing the importance of protecting casino employees’ health while ensuring good-paying jobs.
The legislation represents a move towards a healthier environment within Pennsylvania’s commercial facilities, challenging the existing smoking exemption and advocating for the well-being of both employees and patrons.