Bill Seeking to End Casino Floor Smoking in Iowa Halted
Residents of Iowa had hoped to enjoy casino floors free from the dangers of secondhand smoke. Unfortunately, those hopes have been postponed, as a Senate subcommittee recently voted against a proposal aimed at banning smoking inside casinos.
Iowans Will Have to Wait Longer for Smoke-Free Casinos
The discussion surrounding smoking bans in casinos has been intense, involving lawmakers from various states. Despite the growing health concerns, no decisive action has been taken. Senator Tony Bisignano was one of the opponents of the bill but mentioned that the elimination of smoking in casinos may happen in the near future.
The proposed Senate File 2051 sought to speed up the process of ending indoor smoking in Iowa casinos, bringing regulations in line with the Iowa Smokefree Air Act. However, the gaming industry and some officials have argued that banning smoking could hurt casino revenues.
Contrary to these concerns, multiple economic studies indicate that casino earnings remain steady even without indoor smoking. Opponents of the bill claim that banning smoking would drive players away to casinos in neighboring states that still permit smoking indoors.
On the other hand, the harmful health effects on casino employees and visitors exposed to secondhand smoke are well-documented. Despite this, Senator Bisignano pledged to hold casinos accountable and urged a swift change in their business practices, though he did not support the recent vote.
Scientific Evidence Supports Smoking Bans, So Why the Resistance?
The bill received support from prominent organizations such as the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, the American Lung Association, and the American Heart Association. These groups emphasize the proven dangers of secondhand smoke to both patrons and staff in casino environments.
Research, including a notable study by C3 Gaming, has shown that casinos do not suffer financially from smoking bans. This research dispels the common industry fear that prohibiting indoor smoking will result in a loss of customers.
