The battle over casino smoking continues to intensify across the United States, with key developments occurring in multiple states and venues. Here's a comprehensive overview of the current situation:

Recent Major Developments

Atlantic City remains at the center of the casino smoking debate, with two unions representing casino workers taking opposing stances on indoor tobacco use. Unite Here Local 54, representing non-gaming workers, has taken a different position from their gaming worker counterparts.

A New Jersey judge recently dismissed a lawsuit challenging casino smoking, though opponents have appealed to the state Supreme Court. The court rejected an emergency request to halt casino smoking while considering the appeal.

Notable State-by-State Updates

Pennsylvania: Anti-smoking advocates have rallied at the Harrisburg Capitol, pushing for smoke-free casino legislation.

Rhode Island: Bally's Lincoln has added a second non-smoking casino space, while broader smoking ban legislation faces challenges.

West Virginia: A casino has requested an exemption from county-wide smoking restrictions.

Delaware: Delaware Park is investing $5 million in a dedicated gaming patio where smoking will be permitted.

Industry Research and Health Concerns

The CDC has issued warnings about casino smoking health risks, stating "What happens in Vegas, stays in your lungs."

Gaming influencer Brian Christopher has conducted what he claims is the largest-ever research study on smoke-free casinos, indicating majority support for smoke-free environments.

Casino workers in Atlantic City have reported cancer diagnoses they believe are linked to workplace smoking exposure.

Corporate Response

Major casino operators are taking varied approaches:

• Carnival Cruise Lines has expanded smoke-free casino areas
• Bally's and Boyd Gaming shareholders rejected proposals to evaluate smoking bans
• Florida tribal casinos are expanding smoking areas due to customer demand
• The Venetian and Palazzo in Las Vegas have reinstated table game smoking

The debate continues to evolve, with health advocates, workers' rights groups, and casino operators seeking to balance customer preferences with employee health concerns.

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