Influential lawmaker supports suit challenging smoking in Atlantic City casinos

Senator Joe Vitale, serving as the Chair of the Senate Health, Human Services, and Senior Citizens Committee, has publicly supported a lawsuit aimed at banning smoking within Atlantic City casinos. This legal action, initiated in the State Superior Court in Mercer County, targets the exemption that has permitted smoking on casino floors, contradicting the Smoke Free Air Act’s intent.

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Senator Vitale highlighted his ongoing efforts to close the loophole that has left casino workers unprotected from secondhand smoke exposure. He acknowledged the resilience of many workers who have consistently fought for their health rights. The Senator criticized the State of New Jersey for failing to protect these workers for 18 years, allowing economic arguments to overshadow health responsibilities.