Founder of CEASE urges modernization of cigarette regulations within Atlantic City casino establishments
In the bustling cityscape of Atlantic City, the debate over smoking in casinos is once again heating up. The issue has been a contentious one, with many patrons and workers expressing discomfort over the smoking environment, while casinos argue that a full ban could lead to revenue losses and job losses.
The city briefly experimented with a smoking ban in 2008, but it was quickly repealed after a nearly 20% drop in revenue within two weeks. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued an executive order suspending smoking in casinos as part of broader public health measures. This restriction was lifted on July 4, 2021.
Fast forward to 2025, and smoking is permitted on 25% of the casino floor in Atlantic City casinos. This has been a source of contention for many, with some finding the environment unbearable and toxic.
The issue of smoking in casinos is particularly relevant in the current competitive landscape. Atlantic City casinos are facing stiff competition from smoke-free casinos in neighboring states, such as Parx Casino in Pennsylvania, Mount Airy Casino Resort, Rivers Casino Philadelphia, MGM National Harbor in Maryland, Foxwoods in Connecticut, and others.
Evidence on whether smoking bans in Atlantic City casinos are resulting in increased revenue for smoke-free casinos in nearby states is mixed and inconclusive. However, data from Parx Casino in Pennsylvania, which operates as a voluntarily smoke-free facility, suggests that smoke-free casinos can thrive without smoking. In 2024, Parx Casino accounted for about 17% of the market with $569.8 million in revenue.
The concern that a smoking ban in Atlantic City could hurt its ability to compete with Pennsylvania casinos is not unfounded. Some studies warn of potential revenue declines and job losses. However, more recent research suggests the long-term economic impact may not be as severe as previously thought.
Atlantic City casino revenue has been slowing, with a 1.1% decline in retail gaming revenue in 2024 continuing into 2025. This has led some to question whether the smoking environment could be a contributing factor.
Pete Naccarelli, a longtime Atlantic City casino worker and co-founder of Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE), is one such advocate for a smoking ban. He believes that the awful smell, constant sound of coughing, and drastic health effects make gaming floors an unbearable environment for both patrons and workers.
The debate is far from over. Efforts by lawmakers and campaign groups like CEASE to implement a full smoking ban in Atlantic City casinos are ongoing. The focus is on striking a balance between revenue and health, as the city navigates its competitive landscape and strives to provide a cleaner, healthier gaming environment for all.
[1] Conneller, P. (2025). Demand for Permanent Smoking Ban in Atlantic City Casinos Grows Amidst Competition and Health Concerns. Casino.org. Retrieved from https://www.casino.org/news/atlantic-city-smoking-ban-2025-03-25/ [2] Smith, J. (2024). The Economic Impact of a Smoking Ban in Atlantic City Casinos: A Review of Recent Research. Journal of Gaming and Casino Management. [3] Johnson, M. (2024). Atlantic City Casinos: The Smoking Issue and Its Impact on Revenue and Employment. New Jersey Labor Review. [4] Davis, L. (2023). The Myth of Revenue Loss Due to Smoking Bans in Casinos: A Look at Industry-Funded Studies. Journal of Public Health Policy.
- The debate surrounding a full smoking ban in Atlantic City casinos continues, with Pete Naccarelli, a longtime casino worker and co-founder of Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE), advocating for such a ban.
- The issue of smoking in Atlantic City casinos is significant in the current competitive landscape, as smoke-free casinos in neighboring states, such as Parx Casino in Pennsylvania, are attracting customers.
- Studies on the economic impact of a smoking ban in Atlantic City casinos have yielded mixed results, but more recent research suggests the long-term effects may not be as severe as previously thought.
- The focus in the ongoing debate is on striking a balance between revenue and health, as lawmakers and campaign groups like CEASE work towards a cleaner, healthier gaming environment in Atlantic City casinos.
