Workers call out Gov. Murphy for saying there are 2 sides to casino smoking ban proposal
The group Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) is taking issue with Murphy’s remarks that there are arguments on both sides of the issue.
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Atlantic City casino workers pushing for a smoking ban in the gaming halls are fuming over Gov. Phil Murphy’s comments on News 12’s “Ask Gov. Murphy” program on Thursday.
The group Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) is taking issue with Murphy’s remarks that there are arguments on both sides of the issue.
“The union that I believe pushed this suit is UAW, who represents dealers. They want to have it banned. Their argument is folks are smoking and blowing it right in their face and I get that. On the other side, the other big union, Local 54 of Unite Here – I'm pretty certain does not want it banned because they're concerned it will impact the business prospects in Atlantic City,” Murphy told News 12’s Eric Landskroner.
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However, the co-founder of CEASE says that there are not two equal sides in the fight.
“Gov. Murphy should stop giving credence to casino industry scare tactics powered by alternative facts they manufactured..." wrote Pete Naccarelli, who went on to say, "The only independent research using current data shows casinos would generate even more revenue without indoor smoking...It's time for Gov. Murphy to show leadership in protecting our lives so we never again have to choose between our health and a paycheck."
CEASE and UAW Region 9 are suing Murphy and the state health commissioner to send the casinos’ exemption from the state’s 2006 Smoke-Free Air Act.
A court date is slated for May 13.
