This summer, something unusual is happening in Atlantic City. At a time when most cities across the U.S. are working hard to reduce indoor smoking, Atlantic City is heading in the opposite direction—by allowing smoking back on casino floors.
Yes, you read that right. While health advocates have been pushing for a complete indoor smoking ban, some of the biggest casinos in Atlantic City are continuing to permit it. This decision has sparked a fresh round of controversy and confusion, especially among workers and non-smoking guests.
In Atlantic City, casinos are legally allowed to offer smoking areas that cover up to 25% of the gaming floor. This law was put in place back in 2006.
But ever since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, indoor smoking has been temporarily paused for safety reasons. Now, nearly five years later, that pause has ended, and indoor smoking is back—and so is the debate.
Casino workers are some of the most affected. Many have been demanding a full smoking ban for years. They argue that having to work near smoking areas puts their health at risk.
Organizations like CEASE (Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects) have been vocal about this, organizing rallies and asking lawmakers to end the exception for casinos. But so far, no new laws have been passed to protect these workers.
On the other hand, casino owners say that smoking is still part of the experience for many customers. They believe that banning smoking altogether could lead to a drop in business, especially during the busy summer months when tourism peaks in Atlantic City.
They also point out that some customers may drive to other gambling destinations where smoking is allowed, like in Pennsylvania.
The public, too, seems divided. Some non-smokers are choosing to stay away from casinos altogether this summer. Others say they’ll just avoid the smoking sections.
Smokers, however, feel relieved. For many of them, gambling and smoking go hand in hand, and they appreciate not having to step outside every time they want to light up.
Atlantic City officials have stayed mostly silent on the issue, leaving it up to state lawmakers and casino regulators. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has previously expressed support for a full ban on indoor smoking in casinos, but legislation to change the current law has stalled.
Meanwhile, the numbers tell their own story. According to health organizations like the American Lung Association, secondhand smoke in casinos is just as dangerous as anywhere else. They argue that no ventilation system can fully protect people from the effects of tobacco smoke in shared indoor spaces.
Tourists visiting Atlantic City this summer might be surprised when they walk into casinos and find people smoking at slot machines and card tables. It’s a throwback to a time many thought was over.
Some casinos are trying to make compromises. They’re setting up more clear-cut smoking and non-smoking zones and improving air filtration systems.
But critics say these steps are not enough. They argue that the only real solution is a total ban, with no exceptions.
If you’re planning a trip to Atlantic City in the coming months, this is something to keep in mind. Whether you smoke or not, the rules inside the casinos may affect your comfort and your health.
This ironic twist—bringing back indoor smoking when the rest of the country is moving toward smoke-free environments—is putting Atlantic City in the spotlight. And unless lawmakers step in soon, this strange reality may stick around for longer than just the summer.
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