New Jersey Senate Committee Advances Long-Sought Casino Smoking Ban

Opponents warn of economic impact, while supporters cite health benefits and potential boost to business.

A bill to ban smoking in Atlantic City's casinos has passed a key legislative hurdle in the New Jersey Senate's Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee.
The bill, which has been in the works for nearly two decades, now moves to the full Senate for a vote.
Opponents of the bill, including a prominent business group and a casino workers union, warn that a smoking ban could lead to job losses and economic catastrophe.
Supporters of the bill, including the Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) and a majority of New Jersey and Philadelphia residents according to polls, argue that the ban will be good for business and protect workers' health.
State Senator Vincent Polistina plans to introduce a compromise bill allowing for enclosed smoking rooms, but no details have been released yet.