An Atlantic City casino card dealer faced a difficult decision when she was told to either take unpaid leave or continue working in an indoor smoking environment. The pregnant woman, who has had previous miscarriages and is four and a half months along, expressed concerns about the health risks associated with inhaling secondhand smoke while working at Bally’s Casino. She felt that her rights were being violated every time a customer lit a cigarette at her table.
Despite efforts to ban indoor smoking in New Jersey casinos, including requests from Senator Health Committee Chairman Joe Vitale to Governor Phil Murphy to suspend smoking in casinos until a bill is passed, the issue persists. Casinos argue that a smoking ban would lead to a drop in revenue and job losses, claiming that their ventilation systems are sufficient to protect workers.
However, the inhalation of secondhand smoke poses serious risks to pregnant women, including lower birth weight, premature delivery, and potential issues with the baby’s lung and ear function. Cynthia Hallett, CEO and President of Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights, criticized casinos for their “shameful and reckless disregard” for the health of their workers, citing evidence of the dangers of regular exposure to secondhand smoke.
The pregnant card dealer at Bally’s Casino faced an impossible choice between her financial stability and her health. She cannot afford to take unpaid leave but also does not want to compromise her well-being and that of her unborn child by continuing to work in a smoking environment. The ongoing debate over indoor smoking in Atlantic City casinos highlights the need for stronger regulations to protect the health and safety of employees and patrons alike.