Proposed Missouri Legislation Could End Indoor Smoking At Casinos

Missouri legislators are reviewing two laws that could change working conditions for casino employees across the state.

If approved, the legislation would ban smoking in all Missouri casinos. Supporters claim the measure would protect thousands of employees from second-hand smoke.

Opponents argue that this type of regulation removes individuals’ freedom of choice and could have an adverse economic impact on many casinos within the state.

The Missouri Indoor Clean Air Act consists of two House Bills - House Bill 1618 and House Bill 1901 - which would prohibit smoking inside many publicly used indoor spaces throughout Missouri. 

Although the legislation includes some exemptions, casinos are not among them. As a result, casino gaming floors and all indoor areas would become smoke-free under the new law.

Several states, including Missouri, have traditionally allowed gaming venues to retain indoor smoking permissions, despite repeated criticism from public health advocates. 

Numerous studies have shown that casino employees are more likely to be exposed to second-hand smoke than workers in many other industries.

Casino workers and labor groups are among the strongest supporters of the proposed ban. 

Employees have stated that they are forced to endure long hours in smoke-filled environments, which can aggravate asthma and contribute to long-term health issues. 

Workers are often exposed to second-hand smoke far more than patrons, a key reason behind the growing push for reform.

Some casino visitors remain uncertain about whether they would enjoy a smoke-free gaming environment. 

Others argue that casinos should continue to offer designated smoking areas, suggesting that smokers and non-smokers can coexist through effective ventilation systems and clearly defined spaces.

Economic concerns have also been raised. 

While casino operators have traditionally opposed smoking bans due to fears of reduced gaming revenue, data from smoke-free casinos in other states suggests the impact may be less severe than expected. 

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In some cases, venues have reported stable or even increased visitation from non-smokers.

Modern ventilation systems do not eliminate the risks associated with second-hand smoke, weakening arguments for partial smoking restrictions. 

Over the past two decades, much of the wider hospitality industry - including bars and restaurants - has successfully adapted to smoke-free legislation with minimal economic impact.

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The proposed Missouri casino legislation remains under review, and operators have yet to publicly outline how they would respond should the bills pass. 

If enacted, the measures would introduce new indoor air standards and significantly alter the environment for both casino employees and customers.

The future of smoking in Missouri’s casinos remains uncertain as lawmakers balance public health concerns against economic and personal freedom arguments. 

What is clear, however, is that this debate reflects a broader national movement towards cleaner indoor air and stronger workplace protections.