Kansas Senate Passes Bill to Ban Smoking in Casinos

The United States’ Nonsmokers’ Rights Organization (ANR) is applauding a triumph for fresh air in Kansas as the state’s upper legislative chamber approved legislation that would prohibit smoking within gambling establishments. This action is anticipated to safeguard the well-being of both casino staff and visitors, possibly even drawing in new patrons who favor a smoke-free gaming atmosphere.

Cynthia Hallett, the head of ANR, commended the cross-party backing for the legislation, noting that Kansas legislators are acknowledging the significance of shielding casino workers and patrons from the hazards of passive smoking. She pointed to a burgeoning trend across the nation, emphasizing how casino staff in Kansas, similar to those in a rising number of states, are requesting smoke-free work environments to avoid having to select between their health and their employment.

This movement, Hallett elaborated, has been invigorated by the endeavors of Casino Workers Against Smoking’s Impacts (CEASE) in New Jersey. What originated as a worker-driven movement in Atlantic City is gaining traction nationwide as an increasing number of casino employees become weary of enduring the health hazards linked to secondhand smoke. Considering this, ANR implored the Kansas lower legislative chamber to emulate the Senate’s action and pass the legislation, forwarding it to Governor Kelly’s office to be enacted.

The achievement in Kansas follows CEASE’s expansion beyond New Jersey, which commenced last autumn. The organization, committed to outlawing indoor smoking in casinos, has already forged alliances with groups in Rhode Island and Pennsylvania, indicating a burgeoning national movement for smoke-free gambling venues.

From that point forward, they’ve cultivated a web of supporters within casino personnel across locations like Kansas, Virginia, Nevada, and Indiana.

As Pete Nacarelli, one of the individuals involved with CEASE, stated: “This is not merely an isolated incident. It’s a burgeoning force.”