Legislators in Rhode Island have approved a bill that bans smoking in workplaces, and this now includes casinos and other gambling facilities. These facilities will be allowed to have smoking lounges instead, as long as the smoking lounge has a well-ventilated system that prevents smoke migration into other smoke-free spaces.

In a significant shift toward healthier workplace conditions, Rhode Island lawmakers have approved a bill that extends the state's workplace smoking ban to include casinos. The legislation, championed by Senator V. Susan Sosnowski, marks the end of a long-standing exemption that had allowed smoking on casino floors despite broader public health regulations.

Closing the casino loophole

The legislation repeals a carveout in the state's Public Health and Workplace Safety Act, which previously excluded gambling facilities from the ban on smoking in enclosed workplaces. Sosnowski, who also sponsored the original Act over 20 years ago, said the time had come to extend the same protections to all workers - including those in the gaming industry.

"Everyone deserves to breathe clean air in the workplace," said Sosnowski. "Yes, we want a casino that's making money because we depend on that revenue; but we want our workers to be strong, healthy and vibrant as they're making money for our state."

A compromise with the industry

While Sosnowski's initial proposal called for an outright and immediate ban on smoking inside casinos, the legislation was amended following pushback from Bally's Corporation, which operates both the Tiverton and Twin River casino locations in Rhode Island.

Bally's argued that a full ban could drive away smoking patrons and lead to a significant dip in revenue. In response, Sosnowski modified the bill to allow for designated "smoking lounges" - enclosed areas outfitted with specialized ventilation systems designed to prevent smoke from seeping into non-smoking areas.

In a statement, Bally's expressed appreciation for the compromise: "We appreciate the thoughtful review Senate and House leadership provided on the issue of smoking at our two Rhode Island casinos, and are grateful that a compromise has been reached that will allow us to continue to accommodate our smoking patrons."

Delayed implementation

In another concession to the casino industry, the bill's implementation has been delayed until the 1st of July, 2027, giving gaming operators time to prepare for the transition. Bally's has high hopes the extended timeline and the smoking lounge provision will help reduce any financial impact once the full ban is in effect.

The push to ban smoking in casinos has gained strong momentum in recent years, particularly among employees and staff who have long voiced concerns over their working conditions. The movement intensified right after Rhode Island's casinos temporarily halted indoor smoking during the Covid-19 pandemic. When that temporary ban was lifted in March of 2022, many workers felt abandoned and renewed their calls for permanent reform.

I've had to breathe in secondhand smoke for years while just trying to do my job, said one Twin River employee who supported the bill. We're not asking for much - we're just asking for the right to work in a safe and healthy environment like everyone else.

The next steps for the Rhode Island bill

The bill now awaits Governor Dan McKee's signature. If signed into law, Rhode Island will join a growing list of states reevaluating smoking policies in casinos, balancing public health priorities with economic considerations.

For both public health advocates and casino employees alike, the legislation represents a long-awaited victory. Though not immediate or absolute, it moves the state significantly closer to smoke-free gaming floors - and a safer workplace for all.