Rhode Island Lawmakers Move to Ban Smoking in Casinos

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Casino workers in a smoke-free environment promote a healthier atmosphere for patrons.

News Summary

Rhode Island lawmakers have passed legislation to prohibit smoking inside casinos, awaiting Governor Dan McKee’s approval. Set to take effect in 2027, the law aligns casino operations with smoke-free workplace regulations. While designated smoking lounges are permitted, the measure aims to protect casino workers from secondhand smoke. Advocacy for a smoking ban intensified following a temporary suspension during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this legislation reflects ongoing discussions in other states regarding similar public health initiatives.

Providence, Rhode Island – Rhode Island lawmakers have approved a significant piece of legislation aimed at banning smoking inside casinos, which is now awaiting the approval of Governor Dan McKee. If the bill is signed into law, it will take effect on July 1, 2027.

The legislation, sponsored by Representative V. Susan Sosnowski, amends the Public Health and Workplace Safety Act to bring casinos under the smoke-free workplace requirements that apply to other industries in the state. The final version of the bill allows the construction of enclosed smoking lounges equipped with advanced ventilation systems designed to keep smoke from entering smoke-free areas.

Representative Sosnowski articulated the need for the bill as a measure to protect the health of casino workers while also acknowledging the economic importance of gaming revenue to the state. Originally, Sosnowski had proposed a more immediate and total smoking ban; however, the legislation was modified to allow for a three-year transition period to give casinos time to adapt to the new restrictions.

Bally’s Corporation, which operates Twin River and Tiverton casinos, expressed appreciation for the legislative compromise that permits smoking lounges. The company had opposed an outright ban, citing potential declines in patronage that could affect revenue. Bally’s is now evaluating how the new smoking restrictions might influence its operations and is hopeful that the accommodations for designated smoking areas and the extended timeline will help reduce any forecasted revenue losses.

The casino workforce has been an outspoken advocate for the smoking ban, intensifying their efforts after a temporary suspension of indoor smoking was enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. That temporary ban, which improved conditions for employees, was lifted in March 2022, reigniting calls for new, permanent regulations against smoking in casinos.

Advocacy groups supporting the smoking ban contend that the risks associated with secondhand smoke exposure should not be tolerated in any workplace, including casinos. The approved legislation aligns casino operating standards with broader public health protections, ensuring that workers in the gaming sector are afforded the same health safeguards as individuals in other work environments across Rhode Island.

This move in Rhode Island may also serve as a catalyst for other regions to revisit their smoking regulations in casinos. Similar discussions are occurring in other states, including New Jersey, where the debate over smoking bans is ongoing, reflecting the varied opinions held by labor unions and casino operators on this issue.

The legislation marks an important step toward improving workplace safety and health for casino employees, illustrating a growing trend of public and legislative support for smoke-free environments in the gambling industry. The anticipated outcomes of this law will be closely monitored by stakeholders and advocates as the implementation date approaches.