In an ongoing push for public health, lawmakers in Kansas and Missouri are preparing to introduce legislation in early 2025 aimed at banning indoor smoking in state-regulated casinos.

Advocacy groups, like Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) are driving efforts, citing the dangers of secondhand smoke exposure to casino workers and other non-smoking patrons. Although similar bills were introduced in the past in these states, 2025 marks a new opportunity for change.

Kansas currently permits smoking in its four casinos:

• Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway
• Boot Hill Casino and Resort
• Kansas Star Casino
• Kansas Crossing Casino

However, the proposed legislation will require these establishments to adopt smoke-free policies. Tribal casinos, like 7th Street Casino, would remain exempt because of their sovereign governance.

In Missouri, the Missouri Clean Indoor Air Act already brans smoking in public spaces but allows exemptions in casinos. This creates regulations that are difficult to navigate, but lawmakers are hoping to streamline legislation with the new bills.

Interestingly, other states with strict gambling restrictions provide a comparative landscape to this debate about smoking and gambling. Georgia, for example, is one of the least gambling-friendly states in the US, permitting only lotteries, raffles, and bingo games. Those looking for more varied gambling options must often cross state lines or turn to online casinos in Georgia. These platforms allow players to play casino games without breaking local laws, showing how the gambling industry can adapt to varying regulatory landscapes.

The advocacy group CEASE has expanded its influence in various states, with their focus lately shifting to Kansas and Missouri. CEASE was founded by disgruntled casino workers who have grown tired of the detrimental effects of secondhand smoke and have since gained support from public health organizations like the American Lunch Association and American Heart Association.

According to Joe Hafley, the CEASE Kansas and Missouri chapter founder, the mission of the advocacy group is simple: “Protect casino employees and guests from the harmful effects of smoking.”

Hafley’s own experiences as a security guard at Hollywood Casino validate the urgency of the problem. “Workers are forced to endure smoke-filled environments daily, bringing the harmful effects home to their families.” By rallying state lawmakers and the public, CEASE hopes for 2025 to be a pivotal year for casino regulations.

Despite growing support for smoke-free public spaces and workplaces, there is still resistance to the move. Casino operators are scared that customers will be deterred if they can’t smoke in the casino, which will lead to revenue losses.

Vice President of Public Affairs at Penn Entertainment, Jeff Morris, argues that modern air filtration systems and designated smoking areas are already striking a balance between health concerns and customer choice. He said, “Ultimately, the marketplace should determine the outcome.”

Casino patrons are also voicing mixed opinions. Some argue that casinos are adult-only spaces and should remain exempt from smoking bans. Others welcome the proposed legislation, also citing concerns about exposure to secondhand smoke. There are also questions around how vapes and e-cigarettes should be handled in terms of the proposed ban.

The recent move toward smoke-free casinos in Missouri and Kansas follows national trends. New Jersey and Pennsylvania have already made strides towards smoke-free policies, also driven by advocacy efforts. For example, in New Jersey, protests by Atlantic City casino workers are busy driving change in the state.

Kansas and Missouri lawmakers are going to reconvene in January 2025. The legislative efforts in these states may create a blueprint for other states also struggling with the same debate. Public health and economic considerations are colliding, and the outcome of any smoking bans will not only impact casino policies but also workplace health standards.