Atlantic City's Smoking Ban Standoff: Workers Demand Union Boss' Resignation

The gambling mecca of Atlantic City finds itself in the midst of a heated debate over a smoking ban in its casinos, with some workers calling for the resignation of their union boss. Donna DeCaprio, president of Local 54 of the Unite Here casino workers union, has faced criticism for opposing a smoking ban, a move that has divided the workforce and drawn the ire of some union members.

DeCaprio's opposition to the smoking ban is grounded in the belief that such a move could lead to casino closures and job losses. She argues that between 50% and 72% of all in-person casino revenue in Atlantic City comes from smoking sections, which occupy only 25% of the casino floor. However, Ray Jensen, assistant director of United Auto Workers Region 9, disagrees, stating, "She should be ashamed of herself. She should hand in her union card."

The anti-smoking campaigners, including Casino Employees Against Smoking’s Effects (CEASE) and the United Auto Workers (UAW), cite a 2022 report by Las Vegas-based C3 Gaming, which shows that casinos that went smoke-free "appear to be performing better than their counterparts that continue to allow smoking."

The disagreement between DeCaprio and her critics highlights the tension between economic interests and employee health and safety. While DeCaprio maintains that her union supports the health and safety of its members, the critics argue that her stance prioritizes casino profits over worker well-being.

The debate over the smoking ban also underscores the importance of understanding individual business operations over standard metrics. The casino industry's unique dynamics, where revenue is heavily concentrated in smoking sections, sets it apart from other sectors. This context must be considered when evaluating the potential impact of a smoking ban.



As the debate in Atlantic City continues, all parties involved must consider the long-term implications of their decisions. While a smoking ban may initially cause some economic disruption, the potential benefits, such as improved air quality and employee health, could ultimately outweigh the costs. Meanwhile, casino management and union leaders must work together to mitigate the impact on casino workers and ensure a smooth transition to a smoke-free environment.

In the end, the resolution of this standoff will require a delicate balance of economic, political, and social considerations. By prioritizing the well-being of casino workers and the broader community, Atlantic City can ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for the industry and its employees.