Assembly Republicans in NJ to Support Bipartisan Smoking Ban Bill

Last month, the New Jersey Superior Court voted against Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) and the union United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Works of America (UAW) that would’ve banned smoking in Atlantic City, New Jersey casinos. 

Now, Assembly Republicans in the state are stating they’d support a ban. A bill with bipartisan support is hanging around in the Senate committee. 

Now, CEASE and UAW have decided to start pressuring lawmakers in the state. 

Today, Atlantic City casino employees are one of the few industries in which they work in conditions where there is smoke indoors, as per a loophole from the 2006 Smoke-Free Air Act. 

The bill that’s currently with the Senate committee, S1493, hasn’t gone anywhere since January. 

When it does move, though, Republicans in the state will support it. 

Here’s what Republican Leader John DiMaio said to InsideNJ regarding the bill: 

“If Democrats are serious about protecting workers, Republicans are ready to help pass the bill. We need legislative action, not excuses. This isn’t about politics. It’s about doing what’s right for workers and their families. With significant bipartisan support, there’s no reason not to get this done.”

Even though CEASE and UAW are looking to lawmakers, they’re also filing an appeal with the New Jersey Supreme Court. However, only about 10% of cases submitted are heard. 

Assemblyman William F. Moen Jr., a Democrat, introduced the smoking ban bill. Dan Vicente, the director of UAW Region 9, has since called him out during a press conference, urging him to help move it along. 

“I want to call out Assembly member Moen because if this brother truly is a friend of the working people in the state of New Jersey, and really does care about the life, health and safety of working people throughout the state, he’ll move this bill out of Committee the first opportunity,” Vicente said. We expect to this happen and if you can’t make that happen and are not willing to make that happen, UAW doesn’t consider you a friend to the movement.”

From here, CEASE and UAW are hoping that S1493 progresses and/or the New Jersey Supreme Court hears their appeal. 

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