This bill amends the New Jersey Smoke-Free Air Act to regulate smoking in casinos and casino simulcasting facilities. It removes the previous prohibition on smoking within the perimeter of these establishments, allowing smoking under specific conditions. The new provisions state that smoking is permitted in no more than 25 percent of the area of any casino floor and casino simulcasting facility, and only in areas designated for smoking by signage. Additionally, smoking is restricted to unenclosed interior designated smoking areas that contain slot machines or electronic games, and enclosed interior designated smoking areas with separate ventilation systems to prevent air recirculation into non-smoking areas.

The bill also outlines requirements for the designated smoking areas, including that they must be separated from other areas by solid walls or windows and that no stationary employee can be assigned to work in an enclosed smoking area unless they voluntarily choose to do so. The act will take effect 18 months after its enactment. Overall, this legislation aims to balance the interests of casino patrons who wish to smoke with the health considerations of non-smokers and employees in these environments.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:3D-59