“We thank the committee for voting to pass legislation that will immediately improve our working conditions and fully protect thousands of frontline casino workers from the dangers of secondhand smoke. Today is a big day in our fight for a healthier workplace and we won't stop fighting for this legislation until we can finally breathe smoke-free air at work. We urge legislators to approve this bill when it reaches the Senate floor because no one should be forced to choose between their health and a salary, Casino Employees Against the Effects of Tobacco (CEASE) reported in a statement.

Representatives of the CEASE organization also indicated that "Senator Vince Polistina should not present his so-called 'compromise' bill that will only compromise the health of AC workers. Just a couple of weeks ago he told workers that this bill By law I did not have the votes to leave this committee, but here we are celebrating. The train leaves the station and it is time for it to get on or get out of the way."

Learn a little more about the UAW union and its application
The United Auto Workers (UAW), the only union representing Atlantic City casino dealers, strongly supports the legislation and has repeatedly called on New Jersey lawmakers to protect the health of its members.

The UAW represents thousands of Atlantic City casino workers, including dealers at Caesars, Bally's and Tropicana, who are the hardest hit casino workers, as their jobs require them to spend their entire shift within walking distance of smokers. .

The UAW has also rejected Philip Morris smoking rooms proposed by some industry members. “The UAW will not compromise the health of any worker. We reject any amendment to the legislation that would allow employees to "voluntarily" work in smoking rooms. No one should have to risk their health for a paycheck,” UAW President Shawn Fain wrote in a recent letter to lawmakers.

A recent survey found that 74% of New Jersey and Philadelphia residents would be more likely to visit Atlantic City casinos if they operated in a 100% smoke-free interior, completely contradicting the casinos' claims.