This bill amends the New Jersey Smoke-Free Air Act to eliminate the exemption that currently allows smoking in casinos and casino simulcasting facilities. Under the existing law, smoking is prohibited in most indoor public places and workplaces, but exceptions were made for areas within the perimeter of casinos and simulcasting facilities that are accessible to the public for wagering. The proposed legislation removes these exceptions, thereby requiring that all casinos and simulcasting facilities be smoke-free environments.

The motivation behind this bill is to protect workers from the health risks associated with secondhand smoke, particularly in the casino industry, where studies have shown that employees are at a higher risk for lung and heart diseases due to exposure. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has highlighted the dangers of secondhand smoke, and research indicates that the air quality in casinos can be significantly worse than in other public spaces. By making these facilities smoke-free, the bill aims to enhance the health and safety of all workers in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:3D-59