Strong Summer Casino Revenue Discredits Pro-Smoking Argument, Say Atlantic City Workers | 10BET
Strong Summer Casino Revenue in Atlantic City Discredits Pro-Smoking Arguments, Say Workers
As Atlantic City celebrated its most successful summer in years, a new debate emerged among workers advocating for cleaner air in the workplace. They argue that eliminating indoor smoking would not jeopardize the industrys financial health, pointing to the record-breaking casino revenue generated over the summer months as proof that the gaming sector can thrive even with stricter environmental regulations.
- Revenue Growth – In-person casino revenue reached $855 million from June to August 2025, marking a 5.5% increase compared to the previous year.
- Health Advocacy – Casino employees argue for closing the loophole in the 2006 Smoke-Free Air Act, contending that banning smoking on gaming properties won’t negatively affect business.
- Workers’ Perspective – Pete Naccarelli, a veteran dealer and co-founder of Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE), poses ethical questions about allowing smoking when many workers suffer health consequences due to secondhand exposure.
Many casino workers in Atlantic City believe their industry’s recent success validates their push for a smoke-free environment. Naccarelli recounts how industry executives claim that their business environment is too fragile to consider such changes, yet revenue data contradicts this.
Amidst ongoing debates, the casino industry argues that a smoking ban could significantly reduce gross gaming revenue (GGR). The Casino Association of New Jersey forecasted that a ban could lead to annual GGR declines between 4.2% and 10.9%, potentially resulting in the loss of over 2,500 jobs.
Competing Studies
Studies present conflicting narratives about smoking bans’ impact on casino revenues. While anti-smoking advocates claim drops in revenue are often overstated, the potential shift of smokers to nearby states where smoking is allowed adds to the industry’s concerns.
Research from C3 Gaming indicates that data from several jurisdictions shows banning smoking does not substantially impact gaming revenue. As trends indicate a decline in smoking rates, the situation may not apply uniformly across all states.
In 2022, it was noted that smokers from Delaware, Maryland, and New York frequent Atlantic City due to local restrictions on tobacco in their home states.
The Current State of Atlantic City Casinos
Despite past challenges, Atlantic City casinos currently thrive, buoyed by strong in-person play and growing online gaming activities. However, looming competition from newly authorised downstate New York casinos might change the dynamics.
With approvals for three new casinos in the New York City region potentially coming soon, the tides could shift for Atlantic City, as many patrons may prefer visiting casinos that allow smoking.
At the new downstate casinos, indoor smoking will not be permitted, providing a clean-air alternative for health-conscious gamblers. Six bids are currently under consideration in various locations across New York City, including Manhattan and Brooklyn.
To summarise, while Atlantic City’s casino industry has experienced significant revenue growth, it faces important questions regarding indoor smoking policies. As workers advocate for healthier environments, the industry’s future may depend on how these discussions unfold amidst emerging competition.
