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New Jersey Smoke-Free Bill Approved

NEW JERSEY – As reported by the North Jersey News: "New Jersey smokers may soon have to go cold turkey - at least in public.

"A decade-long drive to make New Jersey smoke-free gained momentum Monday when a Senate committee approved a bill banning smoking in just about any public venue where people socialize and light up - restaurants, bars, social clubs and even casinos.

"…Supporters of the smoking ban said the panel's decision was long overdue and crucial in helping to protect New Jerseyans from the dangers of secondhand smoke, particularly workers in businesses where smoking is common.

"But critics in the restaurant and gaming industry contend that a smoking ban would hurt business and harm New Jersey's economic health.

"…The measure didn't win fans among Atlantic City's casino operators, who warned the committee that thousands of jobs would be at stake if the bill is signed into law.

"Larry Mullin, chief operating officer for Borgata, estimated that 5,000 jobs would be lost and that casinos would lose 15 percent of their revenue because gamblers would opt to go to neighboring states such as Connecticut, where gamblers are allowed to smoke while placing bets. He said casinos have taken steps to accommodate non-smokers by including smoke-free gaming tables…"

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