Fifteen years after Pennsylvania banned smoking in most public places, a Pennsylvania lawmaker wants to close the loopholes that allow patrons to smoke in casinos and some other establishments, to protect workers’ health.
State House Health Committee Chairman Dan Frankel (D-Allegheny), held a hearing on Wednesday where casino dealers, gaming and health experts testified about the negative health effects of secondhand smoke that casino workers breathe at work.
Although representatives of Pennsylvania’s $5.5 billion gaming industry did not testify, at least one other business owner said banning tobacco smoking would have an impact on other types of establishments such as private clubs and cigar bars. The effects ranged from a drop in patronage to immediate closure.