Gamblers fired up over proposal to ban smoking on casino floors

Publication Date: 2005-03-16

• Author:JOHN CURRAN
• Publication:Newsday

Already fighting plans for video lottery terminals at Meadowlands Racetrack, New Jersey's casino industry is suddenly facing an equally scary proposition _ a statewide smoking ban that would force smokers to pick up their coin cups and walk outside if they want to light up.

A bill to ban smoking in indoor, public places is moving through the Legislature, and casinos would be among those affected. Supporters say the ban is needed to clear the air in restaurants, bars and gambling halls, sparing workers and non-smokers from secondhand smoke...

New Jersey's smoking ban bill, which initially contained an exemption for casinos, is gaining momentum in Trenton, thanks in part to the support of acting Gov. Richard J. Codey, who has so far resisted the pleas from Atlantic City.