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HomeLand Based CasinosAtlantic City Casino Smoking Debate Fuels Union Leader Exit Calls

Atlantic City Casino Smoking Debate Fuels Union Leader Exit Calls

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The smoking argument intensified Monday when Ray Jensen, assistant director of United Auto Workers Region 9, called on Donna DeCaprio, head of Local 54, to stand down.

The dispute against smoking in Atlantic City casinos has intensified. According to certain workers’ rights advocates, Local 54 of the Unite Here union favors tobacco businesses over employees.  

UAW official urges Local 54 leader to step down.

The smoking dispute reached a climax on Monday, when Ray Jensen, the assistant director of United Auto Workers (UAW) Region 9, informed everyone that Donna DeCaprio, who oversees Local 54, should go, according to the Associated Press. He claimed she was incorrect to oppose a plan to ban smoking in the casinos. He believes she has not done enough to protect members from the risks of inhaling other people’s smoking.

Jensen alleged DeCaprio prioritized money above health, alleging she supported big tobacco’s campaign to ease smoking regulations. He claimed Local 54’s attitude endangers workers and urged immediate action to address what he called weak leadership. 

DeCaprio stood up for her views, pointing out the potential financial consequences of quitting smoking. She stated that smoking areas, which account for 25% of the casino floors in Atlantic City, generate 50% to 72% of the revenue from visitors in person. She argued that if smoking were outlawed, there would be a significant loss in revenue, several casinos would be forced to close, and thousands of people would lose their jobs. DeCaprio stated that her union aims to keep workers healthy while simultaneously keeping the economy thriving. They recommend installing stronger air cleaning systems and enforcing policies that prevent personnel from working in smoking areas if they do not wish to.


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Casino workers are divided as the push for a smoking ban gains momentum in New Jersey.

This problem divides casino employees. CEASE (Casino Employees Against Smoking’s Effects), a smoking-prevention organization, continues to advocate for legislation to address the loophole in New Jersey’s clean air regulations that allow casinos to allow smoking. They highlight a number of health risks associated with secondhand smoking, including cancer and heart difficulties. CEASE has now requested a court to reconsider an August verdict that upheld the present exemption. 

Those who want to ban smoking cite data from consultancy firm C3 Gaming. These statistics suggest that smoke-free casinos outperform others in various locations. This supports suggestions that banning smoking may save money while keeping employees healthy.

Governor Phil Murphy supports a smoking ban and says he would sign it if lawmakers adopt it. But the Casino Association of New Jersey and Local 54 oppose it. They are concerned about job losses and reduced tax revenue for vital state programs. 

As people dispute over this, discussions about similar smoking bans are beginning in other states, including Pennsylvania and Rhode Island. This demonstrates that more individuals around the country are considering how to balance worker safety with profitability in hotels, restaurants, and other comparable enterprises.

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Marcus Wright
Marcus Wright
A seasoned journalist with 8 years of experience in the iGaming industry, specializing in casino gaming. Known for in-depth analysis, engaging content, and staying ahead of trends.

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