Atlantic City Casino Workers Demand Smoking Ban After Pregnant Employee Denied Transfer

A denied transfer request exposes the harsh reality for casino employees. Now, advocates are fighting to close a loophole that puts pregnant workers—and all staff—at risk.

, and Administrator

2025 December 12 . 1:38 AM

1 min read

This picture is clicked outside. In the foreground we can see a man wearing shirt, hat and seems to... — This picture is clicked outside. In the foreground we can see a man wearing shirt, hat and seems to be smoking cigar. In the background we can see the chairs, trees, tents, houses, umbrella, poles, rocks and many other objects.

Atlantic City Casino Workers Demand Smoking Ban After Pregnant Employee Denied Transfer

A campaign to ban indoor smoking in New Jersey’s casinos is gaining urgency. CEASE, an advocacy group, claims tens of thousands of workers and their families face health risks due to second-hand smoke. Despite state-wide indoor smoking restrictions, casinos remain exempt—allowing designated smoking areas inside.

The push for change follows a recent incident at Bally’s Casino in Atlantic City. A pregnant worker requested a transfer to a non-smoking section but was denied. CEASE co-founder Nicole Vitola called the situation 'impossible' and highlighted that such cases are not rare. She accused the casino industry of forcing pregnant employees to choose between their pregnancy and their income.

The campaign now focuses on winning over local legislators. Without court backing, CEASE needs political support to close the casino smoking loophole. For now, pregnant workers and others remain exposed to indoor smoke in Atlantic City’s casinos.