Key Points: Smokefree gaming is needed for casino workers and patrons, but numerous smoke-free laws have exempted casinos. There is no legal requirement to exempt casinos from these laws, and casinos may be subject to legal liability if they continue to expose patrons to secondhand smoke. Numerous efforts are underway around the country to promote smokefree casino policies, whether through voluntary policy change or legislation. The experiences in New Jersey and Colorado confirm that resisting casino exemptions in smokefree legislation will be difficult, but that smokefree casino efforts can progress even if the face of initial setbacks.

Learning Objectives: Explain need for smokefree casinos policies and describe smoke-free casino efforts around the country. Explore legal issues raised by smoking in casinos and legal/policy options for addressing the problem. Provide case studies of challenges faced by smokefree casino advocates in New Jersey and Colorado discuss lessons learned in those two states. Both states have smokefree casino bills currently pending in the state legislatures.

Benefits: Tobacco control advocates will be able to educate policymakers and their local gaming industry on the benefits of having 100% smokefree gaming venues. Advocates will understand that gaming venues need not be exempted from state or local smokefree laws, that such exemptions harm public health, and that resources are available to assist smokefree casino efforts.