ATLANTIC CITY, N.J., Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Atlantic City, N.J., may extend a statewide ban on smoking in public places to its popular casinos, which so far have been exempted.
While New Jersey's State Legislature made a special allowance for the gambling establishments when it enacted the smoking ban seven months ago, the Atlantic City Council is now considering voiding that exemption, The New York Times reported.
At the heart of the possible move, likely to face strong opposition from casino operators, is a concern for the health of both casino employees and those who frequent the establishments, the Times said.
To date, numerous employees from Atlantic City casinos have testified to the City Council that their health endangered by tobacco smoke.
Surprisingly, similar bans passed for gambling halls in Delaware and California were followed by increased business, the newspaper said.
The Times said that the council, which has already given initial approval to the ban, will make its final decision Dec. 29.
