Casinos Argue That Smoking Ban Hurts Everyone

In Michigan, Louisiana, and elsewhere, casinos and other gambling venues (including bingos) scramble to fight against potential smoking bans. Many of these are now bringing up the ripple effects (lower tax payments, job losses, small business revenue) that a smoking ban will likely have in gaming communities.

Below is an excerpt from a recent article out of Louisiana:

As bills that would expand Louisiana’s smoking ban to gambling venues continue to smolder in the Legislature, casino officials are battling to avoid what they call an unfair financial burden.

State Rep. Gary Smith told House members the 2006 law banning smoking in restaurants unfairly excluded bars and casinos, placing a burden on establishments that make most of their money serving food.

“These businesses compete with each other, and we need a level playing field,” Smith said. “We’ve already drawn a line in the sand, and now we’re going to make it even across the board for all of the individuals in the service industry.”

But Boomtown Casino spokesman Charles Fredrick says prohibiting smoking in casinos will send economic ripples throughout the state.

“What we anticipate is a 20 percent reduction in revenue if this smoking ban passes,” Frederick said. “If we lose 20 percent of our business, or even 15 percent, that means people are going to get laid off. The State Police get $52 million a year from riverboat casinos. Take 20 percent from that and tell me how many state troopers are going to get laid off.”

For the complete story, please see Stephen Maloney, Casinos go on offensive to ward off smoking ban, New Orleans City Business, June 8, 2009.