The Hazardous Gamble: Smoking in Norfolk’s Cassino and Its Impacts on Health and Gambling Addiction
The decision to allow smoking in the soon-to-be-opened casino in Norfolk, Virginia, has ignited a fervent debate among health advocates, casino workers, and the local community. As the casino gears up for its groundbreaking ceremony, voices of concern rise, emphasizing the potential health risks posed to employees and patrons alike. Anti-smoking advocates argue that permitting smoking in the casino could not only endanger health but also exacerbate gambling addictions among vulnerable individuals.
Health Risks for Workers and Patrons
Juana Wilson, a representative from the Virginia arm of Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects, emphasizes the untenable position that casino workers will find themselves in. “No worker should ever have to choose between their health and a paycheck, but that’s exactly what will happen when this casino opens,” she asserts. With her previous experience at Rivers Casino in Portsmouth, she is familiar with the realities faced by those employed in smoke-friendly establishments.
In Virginia, casinos stand as the sole venues where indoor smoking is still permissible. The lack of protections for workers in these environments is alarming. The impending opening of Norfolk’s casino could put hundreds of employees at risk of exposure to secondhand smoke, a leading preventable cause of severe health issues, including heart disease, cancer, and respiratory ailments.
The Shift in Casino Policy
Initially, there were discussions about creating a non-smoking casino in Norfolk. Although the idea garnered support, city attorney Bernard Pishko has clarified that this was never formally documented. With Boyd Gaming taking the lead on development, the narrative has shifted to one that accepts smoking. Developers argue that opting for a smoke-free environment would negatively impact revenues—a claim that has prompted considerable scrutiny.
Furthermore, a 2022 report suggests that casinos that implemented smoking bans did not experience a drop in revenue, contradicting industry narratives. Critics, including Bronson Frick from Americans for Nonsmokers Rights, argue convincingly that this is a ruse—a “red herring.” Frick highlights the overwhelming trend of decreasing tobacco usage in the U.S. and points to surveys indicating that patrons largely favor smoke-free gaming environments.
The Argument for Stronger Regulations
Virginia’s ban on smoking in public places has been in effect for 15 years; however, casinos have largely operated under an exemption. Frick and anti-smoking advocates are working with legislators to eliminate this carve-out, pushing for comprehensive smoking bans that cover all public spaces, including casinos. They argue that even a single casino employs thousands of individuals—far more than the local bar or restaurant scene—making its impact on public health significant.
The Link Between Smoking and Gambling Addiction
Compounding the health risks posed by allowing smoking in casinos are the potential impacts on gambling addiction. Data from national organizations such as the National Council on Problem Gaming suggest that allowing smoking could worsen gambling addictions. The rationale is simple: by making smokers step away from gaming machines to indulge in their habit, it provides a necessary break from gambling, which may help mitigate problem gambling behaviors.
Interestingly, earlier this year, efforts were made to persuade Boyd Gaming shareholders to adopt a smoke-free policy across its 28 casinos. Unfortunately, this proposition was met with resistance and was ultimately defeated.
The Experience at Rivers Casino
Rivers Casino in neighboring Portsmouth exemplifies the complicated relationship between smoking and casino operations. Despite introducing a smoke-free area, reports have surfaced detailing the inadequate ventilation and lack of physical barriers between smoking and non-smoking sections. This setup raises concerns about the efficacy of such measures to truly create a healthy environment for patrons and workers alike.
Conclusion: A Call for Change
As Norfolk prepares for the forthcoming casino opening, the issues surrounding smoking policies remain deeply relevant. The conflict between potential profits and the health of employees and patrons underscores a crucial dilemma. Advocates for healthier casino environments continue to emphasize that smoking should not be tolerated in venues where it threatens both health and well-being.
The debate highlights the need for a strategic approach from the local government, casino developers, and health advocates to prioritize community well-being over short-term financial gains. With the support of public sentiment in favor of smoke-free spaces, the potential to create healthier gaming environments exists—if only stakeholders are willing to take the necessary steps.
