Gaming officials say regulations to ban smoking in three proposed Massachusetts casinos are already in place, and although some experts say the ban will hurt casinos’ revenues, others say the smoke-free environment will bring a bigger draw to the tables. Instead of worrying about various policies inside an actual casino, you have the option to play slot gacor games online.
Although Indian-run casinos are not required to follow state smoking laws, any state-licensed casino in Massachusetts must abide by state law, which bans smoking in all workplaces, including bars and restaurants. Native American tribes may apply for a license in the state if they agree to waive any and all rights under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which includes abiding by the terms of the smoking ban.
Some gaming experts say if Indian casinos allow smoking, they would have an advantage over state-licensed casinos.
“There is an argument that [a ban] can cut into profits if you have other jurisdictions or Indian casinos nearby that do allow smoking,” said American Gaming Association spokesman Brian Lehman.
A 2005 study conducted by the Harvard University School of Public Health demonstrated the Massachusetts Smoke-free workplace Law had no adverse effect on local keno — a gambling game usually in bars — and dining establishments, and even showed a slight increase in sales.
The Mashantucket Pequot tribe, which owns and operates Connecticut’s Foxwoods Resort and Casino, said Foxwoods created a non-smoking area upon request from numerous patrons and employees.
“Foxwoods was one of the first casinos to dedicate a special area to non-smoking, realizing that it was an important step,” said tribal spokesman Arthur Henick.
In February, Atlantic City passed a law requiring 75 percent of casino space to be smoke-free.