Former NJ Health Officials Urge Casino Smoking Ban

Tobacco control experts push for smoke-free Atlantic City gaming floors.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:41pm

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray image revealing the internal mechanisms of a casino slot machine, conceptually representing the hidden health risks of secondhand smoke in gaming venues.Former state health officials argue that casino workers' exposure to secondhand smoke warrants a smoking ban.Atlantic City Today

Two former high-ranking officials from the New Jersey Department of Health, who previously oversaw the state's tobacco control programs, are calling on the state government to ban smoking inside Atlantic City's casinos. The officials argue that secondhand smoke exposure poses serious health risks to casino workers and patrons.

Why it matters

Atlantic City's casinos have long allowed smoking on their gaming floors, despite growing evidence that secondhand smoke exposure can have detrimental health effects. This push by former state health leaders could put pressure on lawmakers to reevaluate the state's casino smoking policies.

The details

The two former health officials, who requested anonymity, say they are speaking out now because they believe the time is right for New Jersey to join the growing number of states and cities that have banned smoking in casinos. They cite research showing that casino workers have higher rates of lung cancer and heart disease compared to the general population.

  • The former officials are calling for the smoking ban ahead of the upcoming state legislative session.

The players

New Jersey Department of Health

The state agency responsible for overseeing public health programs, including tobacco control efforts.

Atlantic City Casinos

The gaming and hospitality venues located in Atlantic City, New Jersey that currently allow smoking on their premises.

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What they’re saying

“Secondhand smoke exposure puts casino workers and patrons at serious risk. It's time for New Jersey to join other states in protecting people's health.”

— Former NJ Health Official

What’s next

The former health officials plan to meet with state legislators in the coming weeks to advocate for a casino smoking ban.

The takeaway

This push by experienced public health experts could build momentum for New Jersey to reevaluate its casino smoking policies and join the growing number of jurisdictions that have banned smoking on gaming floors to protect worker and patron health.