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Home > What's New > Proposed New Jersey Ban Could Stretch to Casinos
Proposed New Jersey Ban Could Stretch to Casinos
Posted: Thursday, March 10, 2005
By Michael Moretti New Jersey lawmakers are not only considering banning smoking in restaurants, bars and other indoor public spaces, but may go a step further to incorporate casinos.
New Jersey Gov. Richard Codey wants casinos added to the list of establishments that would no longer be permitted to cater to smokers if the legislation passes. Seven states -- California, Connecticut, Delaware, New York, Maine, Massachusetts and, recently, Rhode Island -- have already adopted similar bans.
As written now, the New Jersey ban would exempt casinos, fraternal organizations -- such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Elks -- private clubs and tobacco retailers. Cigar bars and lounges that can claim 15 percent or more total gross income in 2004 from the sale of tobacco products, including humidor rentals, would also be excused. The exemptions would remain in effect for a year and would be renewable on the above conditions. The establishment, however, cannot be expanded in size or move to a new location.
The State Department of Health and Senior Services and local town health boards would enforce the law. Those who do not comply could be fined $250 for the first offense, $500 for the second and $1,000 for each additional infraction.
On February 28, antitobacco groups organized by the American Cancer Society rallied on the steps of the Statehouse in Trenton, calling for the passage of an indoor smoking ban and depicting New Jersey as the "ashtray of the Northeast." Sen. John H. Adler (D-Camden), the primary sponsor, introduced The Smoke-Free Air Act last October and is scheduled to go before the Senate Health Committee this Monday. Also in Cigar News:
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