An Iowa Senate subcommittee rejected a bill that would have ended the exemption allowing smoking on casino gaming floors, voting two to one against it. Casino operators argued a ban could reduce revenue, while health advocates said workers remained exposed to second-hand smoke; the proposal did not advance from the panel.
The decision preserves the proposed smoking exemption for Iowa casino gaming floors at this stage.
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Missouri representatives Bruce Sassman and Adrian Plank sponsored bills HB 1618 and HB 1901 proposing indoor smoking prohibitions that include casinos. The proposals contain exceptions and have not been approved; casino employees’ advocates say they aim to reduce workers’ exposure to secondhand smoke.
CEASE is supporting proposed casino smoking bans in Kansas and Missouri, where bills have been introduced for consideration. The group said it is mobilising local branches and public support for the measures, while opponents have raised concerns about potential economic effects.
Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) asked New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy in December to press lawmakers to vote on a bill banning indoor smoking at Atlantic City casinos before he leaves office. A letter signed by 160 casino workers said his support should be matched by action; Murphy’s office said he would sign a ban if lawmakers passed it. Casino operators oppose the proposal, citing possible revenue and job losses, while CEASE disputes those claims.
Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects asked New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to press lawmakers to vote on bills ending indoor smoking at Atlantic City casinos. A spokesperson for Murphy said he would sign a ban if legislation reached his desk; the current legislature’s term ends on 12 January 2026.
Rhode Island lawmakers approved a bill extending the indoor workplace smoking ban to casinos, pending Governor Dan McKee’s signature. The measure is scheduled to take effect on 1 July 2027 and would allow enclosed, ventilated smoking lounges; Bally’s had opposed a complete ban.