Yesterday was the first day Atlantic City gamblers were unable to light up while visiting a casino. Although the casino industry objected, a blanket smoking went into effect yesterday and is scheduled to last at least twelve days. After that time period the ban could be put on hold for at least a year if the mayor signs a measure that would delay it.

Although members of the casino industry were against the ban, workers and customers seem to be on both sides. One dealer of the Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino was glad he could come to work and breathe fresh air. He was quoted as saying it was “one of the greatest nights I’ve seen in the casino business.”

One customer at Resorts Atlantic City is opposed to the ban. She was sitting in the smoking section and was about to light up when a cleaning guy came by and took her ashtray. She asked for it back but the employee said no and left with no explanation.

The ban took effect at midnight so anyone trying to light up after then would have no means to. Back in April council passed a law that would ban smoking from the entire casino floor but casinos would be allowed to set up enclosed smoking lounges. These lounges had to be away from slot machines and table games.

Atlantic City casino owners pushed to have the ban delayed for one year citing the economy and decreasing revenues. The city council agreed but procedural delays prevented them from approving the deadline change in time before the ban went into effect this past Wednesday.

If Scott Evans, the mayor, signs the new measure brought forth by the council the ban will end on October 27th. The mayor has yet to state what he plans to do.


- 2008-10-16