Casino Employees Against Smoking’s Effects (CEASE), a campaign launched by Atlantic City casino workers to eliminate smoking in casinos, is gaining momentum as it expands its reach to other states. With growing interest from casino employees across the United States, CEASE has recently established new chapters in Rhode Island and Pennsylvania, signaling its national expansion. The group is determined to advocate for smoke-free workplaces in the gaming industry, and its efforts are gaining traction as more casino workers join the fight for a healthier and cleaner gaming environment.
A National Movement:
CEASE, formed last year, has quickly evolved into a powerful movement advocating for smoke-free casinos across the country. Casino employees from various states have shown interest in replicating the group’s success, leading to the establishment of chapters in Rhode Island and Pennsylvania. Lamont White, one of the founders, emphasized the growing interest and readiness of casino workers from different regions to join the cause.
Campaign Launch at The Palazzo, Las Vegas:
CEASE’s co-founder, Peter Naccarelli, expressed the group’s commitment to effecting lasting change in the gaming industry. During a speech at The Palazzo on the famous Las Vegas Strip, Naccarelli stressed that CEASE’s mission is not just a momentary endeavor; it is a formidable movement aimed at eliminating smoking in casinos across the nation. He encouraged casino employees in Las Vegas and beyond to unite with CEASE in their efforts to create smoke-free gaming environments.
The Current State of Smoking in Casinos:
Despite the New Jersey Smoke-Free Air Act of 2006, smoking is still allowed inside Atlantic City’s casinos. CEASE’s efforts to close the casino smoking loophole have gained support from legislators in both the Senate and the Assembly, who are co-sponsoring Bill S264. Governor Phil Murphy has expressed his willingness to sign the bill, should it be passed. However, casinos have voiced their opposition to a smoking ban, with concerns about potential job losses and revenue declines.
The Fight for a Smoke-Free Casino Environment:
CEASE’s determination to eliminate smoking in casinos is driven by its vision for a healthier and safer working environment for casino employees and patrons alike. As the campaign expands to new states, its influence is gaining momentum, creating a formidable force for change. The Casino Association of New Jersey, representing Atlantic City’s nine casinos, commissioned a report projecting the potential economic challenges of a smoking ban. Despite these concerns, CEASE remains resolute in its mission to bring about positive change in the gaming industry.
CEASE’s nationwide expansion marks a significant step forward in the fight against smoking in casinos. The campaign’s success in establishing chapters in Rhode Island and Pennsylvania demonstrates the growing momentum of its movement. With a clear vision and determined efforts, CEASE aims to foster a healthier and cleaner gaming environment for casino employees and visitors across the United States. As the gaming industry evolves, the push for smoke-free casinos continues to gain support, highlighting the importance of a collaborative effort to achieve positive change in the industry.