The rationale behind that exemption is seemingly shifting, as the ongoing covid-19 pandemic shines a light on the health and safety of casino workers and patrons.Īcross the country, 20 states have banned smoking in casinos, including neighboring states Delaware, Maryland, New York and Ohio, according to the nonprofit American Nonsmokers’ Rights Foundation.
Like flashing lights, dings and coins splashing into a slot machine tray, an equally familiar - even stereotypical - casino experience involves plumes of smoke wafting skyward from patrons puffing on ash-tipped cigarettes.Ĭasinos, and the states that host them, have permitted smoking for decades, with the industry bypassing a sweeping ban that in the 2000s outlawed the practice on airplanes, in restaurants and in other indoor places.
