New Legislation Seeks to Ban Smoking in Pennsylvania Casinos and More
Introduction to Smoking Ban Efforts in Pennsylvania
This week marked a significant development in Pennsylvania’s effort to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke in public spaces. The state House Health Committee has advanced a bill aimed at prohibiting smoking in locations such as casinos and bus stops, areas that were previously exempt from indoor smoking restrictions.
Overview of the Proposed Legislation
The proposed law, titled the Protecting Workers From Secondhand Smoke Act, intends to update Pennsylvania’s 2008 Clean Indoor Air Act. The original 2008 legislation included exemptions for venues like casinos, private clubs, and certain bars, leaving many workers exposed to harmful smoke. This new bill aims to eliminate those exemptions and also regulate the use of e-cigarettes, which were not addressed in the earlier law.
Perspectives from the Bill’s Sponsor
Representative Dan Frankel, a Democrat from Squirrel Hill and the bill’s sponsor, emphasizes the health and fairness aspects of the legislation. He highlights that only about 20% of Pennsylvanians currently smoke, and believes that public outings should not feel like stepping back into a time when the dangers of smoking were not widely recognized.
Details and Exceptions Within the Proposed Ban
Despite the restrictions, the bill would still permit smoking in certain areas such as cigar bars, outdoor patios, and private home offices. Private clubs would also maintain the option to allow smoking, but this would require a membership and staff vote every two years to continue the practice.
Legislative Progress and Additional Provisions
The Health Committee approved the bill with a 22-4 vote, showcasing bipartisan support. Additionally, an amendment was passed by a 25-1 vote to include bus stops among smoke-free locations. The legislation would also empower cities and towns to implement even stricter smoke-free regulations, a move advocated by public health supporters.
Senate Companion Bill and Bipartisan Support
Senator Jay Costa, a Democrat from Forest Hills, has introduced a companion bill in the Senate to complement the House effort and facilitate progress. Representative Frankel highlights the bipartisan agreement by stating that the lungs of casino workers deserve the same protections as those of office employees.
Impact on Casinos Transitioning to Smoke-Free Policies
The legislation could bring other casinos in line with establishments like Parx Casino in Bucks County, the state’s most profitable gaming venue, which has maintained a smoke-free environment since the changes made during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Parx’s chief operating officer, Marc Oppenheimer, the smoke-free policy has led to improved employee morale, reduced healthcare expenses, and attracted more patrons seeking smoke-free environments.
Conclusion
If enacted, this law would significantly reduce exposure to secondhand smoke for casino employees and patrons throughout Pennsylvania, while providing communities with the opportunity to adopt even stronger smoke-free regulations.
