Judge Rules in Favor of Atlantic City Casinos

A judge in Atlantic City, New Jersey, allowed smoking to continue in the city's casinos, handing a significant victory to the struggling industry. Superior Court Judge Patrick Bartels' ruling is a setback for casino workers who have been fighting for four years to ban smoking in their workplaces. Mark Giannantonio, president of Resorts Casino and the Casino Association of New Jersey, welcomed the decision, emphasizing the industry's steps to create healthier environments while retaining smoking sections.

Lamont White, a Borgata dealer leading the anti-smoking movement, stated, "This fight is far from over." Nancy Erika Smith, representing the workers, announced plans to appeal, criticizing New Jersey for "shaming itself" by allowing the casino industry to maintain smoking areas. The issue of smoking in casinos is contentious, not just in Atlantic City but in other states like Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Kansas, and Virginia. Currently, smoking is permitted on 25% of the casino floor in Atlantic City, though workers argue that secondhand smoke is pervasive. A previous smoking ban in 2008 was quickly repealed after revenue sank 20% in just two weeks. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)