A recent open letter directed at state lawmakers and gaming commissions has reignited discussions surrounding the efficacy of air filtration systems within casinos, particularly in relation to the call for an end to indoor smoking in these establishments.
man enveloped in a cloud of smoke
On Thursday, September 19, a prominent national advocacy group dedicated to eliminating smoking released an open letter. This organisation has long campaigned against state exemptions for casinos that are part of indoor smoking restrictions. A letter directed at state lawmakers and regulators calls for action on indoor smoking, framing it as a matter of responsible gaming.

“Permitting smoking in gaming areas presents serious health hazards for both employees and visitors, while also promoting extended gambling periods without necessary pauses – a key principle of responsible gaming,” ANR stated in the open letter to state officials.

An anti-smoking organisation highlighted a statement issued by the US National Council on Problem Gambling.

The NCPG stated that implementing smoke-free policies in casinos is expected to decrease the rates of problem gambling and enhance public health outcomes.

Titus highlights the significant progress made in Las Vegas.
A discussion on the matter took place at an event in Washington, DC, hosted by the platform Semafor on Thursday. Nevada US representative Dina Titus responded to concerns raised by public health organisations regarding smoking in casinos.

“The state legislature has periodically examined this issue, and once more, it appears that the industry is taking it upon itself to regulate,” Titus remarked. “If you visit almost any location on the Strip, you'll find that the new casinos are equipped with cutting-edge technology.” It’s not the outdated, dimly lit venues that are so filled with smoke that you still encounter a few in the downtown area, but they’ve managed to maintain a commendable standard.

“Some of the slot machine banks are equipped with filters on the side that remove the bad air, so I would encourage you to visit such places and see for yourself that the atmosphere is not overly smoky.”

Advocates for a smoke-free environment assert that implementing a smoking ban is the most effective solution.
On Friday, September 20, ANR promptly released a statement countering Titus' claims.

“Experts in ventilation system design have consistently advised casinos against asserting that their systems safeguard employees and patrons from harmful secondhand smoke,” stated ANR president and CEO Cynthia Hallett. “These systems eliminate unpleasant smells, but they do not address carcinogens and other hazardous substances.” To ensure that both customers and employees can enjoy clean air, it is essential to completely ban indoor smoking in casinos, without exception.

She highlighted a statement issued by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers.

The group contends that no existing or foreseeable ventilation or air-cleaning system can effectively manage or substantially diminish the health hazards posed by environmental tobacco smoke to a satisfactory degree.

Hallett noted that individuals in Nevada are in favour of prohibiting indoor smoking in casinos. She highlighted a survey conducted earlier this year by Normington Petts, revealing that almost 60% of voters in Nevada are in favour of implementing smoke-free policies in all workplaces, including casinos.