| TRENTON, N.J. – New Jersey Assembly Republican leadership announced Tuesday that if the Democratic majority cannot gather enough votes to ban smoking in Atlantic City casinos, Republicans will provide the needed support.
Last year, Assembly and Senate committees held passionate hearings on the issue, but the bill never made it to a floor vote. The legislation currently has 42 sponsors in the Assembly, including 13 Republicans.
Republican Leader John DiMaio, joined by Deputy Leader Antwan McClellan, Conference Leader Christopher DePhillips, Whip Brian Bergen, Budget Officer Nancy Munoz and Parliamentarian Brian Rumpf, stressed that it’s time act.
“If Democrats are serious about protecting workers, Republicans are ready to help pass the bill,” said DiMaio (R- Hunterdon, Somerset & Warren). “We need legislative action, not excuses.”
New Jersey’s 2006 smoking ban in most workplaces excluded casinos. Smoking is allowed on 25% of casino floors and designated areas.
Casino workers, led by groups like Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects and the United Auto Workers, which represents workers at three Atlantic City casinos, have pushed for years to close this loophole. After legislative efforts stalled, they filed an unsuccessful lawsuit to push for change. Now it is up to the Legislature.
“This isn’t about politics, it’s about doing what’s right for workers and their families,” DiMaio added. “With significant bipartisan support, there’s no reason not to get this done.”
Republicans are calling for a vote as soon as possible and are prepared to work with Democrats to finally ban smoking in Atlantic City casinos.
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