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If you have always been bothered by the hazy smoke and ashtrays in land-based casinos, PA workers feel the same way – in fact, they have banded together and sought to curb indoor smoking in casino establishments in Pennsylvania once and for all. But will they be successful?

In Pennsylvania, the longstanding association between smoking and casinos might be on the brink of change, driven by the determined efforts of casino employees advocating for a healthier work environment. Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (aptly named CEASE) recently joined forces with Representative Dan Frankel, a dedicated advocate for a smoke-free Pennsylvania, to press lawmakers to close the loophole in the Pennsylvania Clean Indoor Air Act that permits indoor smoking inside casinos in the state. The rally took place at the Capitol building in Harrisburg, underscoring the growing urgency of the issue.

Legislators are responsible for protecting workers’ health

The push for smoke-free casinos in Pennsylvania is part of a broader movement highlighting the responsibility of lawmakers to safeguard workers’ health. This movement has gained traction not just in Pennsylvania but also in neighboring states. For instance, casino workers in New Jersey recently filed a lawsuit against the health commissioner, accusing the state of failing to protect their health by allowing indoor smoking in casinos.

The question now is whether or not Pennsylvania will follow New Jersey's path. Although Pennsylvania has not yet seen a similar lawsuit, there is already a legislative effort underway to address the issue. Representative Dan Frankel has introduced a bill aimed at banning smoking inside Pennsylvania casinos. However, the bill has not made significant progress in the House, leaving the future of smoke-free casinos in the state uncertain.

Casinos’ mixed reaction to the proposed ban

The casino industry’s reaction to the push for smoke-free environments has been mixed. Major brands like Caesars Entertainment have been resistant to change, maintaining policies that allow indoor smoking. In contrast, some casinos are taking steps toward accommodating non-smokers and promoting healthier environments for their employees.

One case in point: Mohegan Pennsylvania recently opened a new smoke-free gambling lounge, signaling a positive shift. This move has been welcomed by many who see it as a step in the right direction. However, the response from other casinos has been less encouraging. For instance, the owners of Pennsylvania's Valley Forge Casino recently rejected proposals for a study geared towards implementing a non-smoking policy, demonstrating the ongoing resistance within parts of the industry.

The debate over smoking in casinos continues to generate strong opinions on both sides. Advocates for smoke-free environments argue that allowing smoking indoors poses serious health risks to employees and patrons alike. They point to numerous studies linking secondhand smoke to a range of health issues, from respiratory problems to cardiovascular disease.

On the other hand, some casino operators argue that banning smoking could hurt their business, potentially driving away customers who prefer to smoke while gambling. They also point to the significant investments already made in ventilation systems designed to mitigate the impact of indoor smoking.

The current state and future outlook

As it stands, the only completely smoke-free casino environments in Pennsylvania are online casinos, where the absence of physical spaces naturally eliminates the issue of indoor smoking. However, the growing advocacy from groups like CEASE and supportive legislators like Representative Frankel provides hope that this could change.

The push for smoke-free casinos in Pennsylvania reflects a broader societal trend towards healthier, smoke-free environments. As awareness of the health risks associated with secondhand smoke continues to grow, the pressure on lawmakers and the casino industry is likely to increase. For now, the future clearly remains uncertain. The battle between health advocates and industry stakeholders continues, with significant implications for the well-being of casino employees and patrons. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the conversation around smoking in casinos is far from over, and the outcome could reshape the landscape of the gaming industry in Pennsylvania, for better or for worse.

Caesars Palace, the renowned casino operator, recently made an exciting announcement on its X social media platform: the progressive mega jackpot for the popular slot game Siberian Storm has now soared to an impressive $509,000 in its Michigan lobby. This thrilling development has captured the attention of both local gamblers in the MI scene and slot enthusiasts from outside the state alike.

Siberian Storm, a MultiWay Xtra slot developed by the well-known software giant IGT, is celebrated for its unique 3x4x5x4x3 layout, offering players an incredible 720 winning ways. The slot also features a striking Siberian white tiger as its main protagonist, along with visuals that boast crisp graphics and an enchanting soundtrack that enhances the full gaming experience.

In fact, the slot has become one of the most beloved offerings in IGT's portfolio primarily due to its substantial payouts and state-of-the-art features. Siberian Storm is available in land-based and online casinos across Michigan, ensuring that a wide range of players can try their luck at winning the massive jackpot.

How can you win the massive jackpot at Siberian Storm?

Players have two chances to win the progressive mega jackpot on Siberian Storm. The first approach involves landing five "MegaJackpots Scatters" someplace on the reels, which includes the free spins round. If, however, the jackpot is not triggered in a single spin, the game offers an automatic "Second Chance" determination, providing another occasion to hit the jackpot. And there's more: the higher the bet, the greater the chance of winning, adding an extra layer of excitement to the game. Despite its relatively low RTP of 93%, the slot's medium volatility keeps players coming back for more.

Caesars all set to launch a new app in 2024

Meanwhile, Caesars Entertainment, which operates two online casinos in MI, has ambitious plans for the future. While its OG platform is integrated into Caesars Sportsbook & Casino, in 2023, the company launched a separate app called Caesars Palace Online Casino. But by 2024’s end, Caesars plans to introduce another casino app, expanding its presence in the state's growing iGaming market.

The speculation surrounding the launch of the new platform was just confirmed when Caesars officially announced that its acquisition of WynnBet's MI online platform is now complete. The existing WynnBet brand will remain active until the latter part of 2024, after which a whole new brand will be disclosed, pending state-related approvals.

The acquisition, first revealed in February, includes the WynnBet sportsbook and online casino license. Caesars currently runs ten casino brands, any of which could become the next new online casino in the Great Lakes state, adding to the anticipation and excitement among players.

Caesars: bringing stability to the Wolverine State

In Michigan, Caesars Palace places 5th among casinos in terms of generated revenue, a position it has maintained since entering the Wolverine State's iGaming market four years ago. With the recent acquisition of WynnBet, Caesars' market position is expected to strengthen even further.

When combined with the revenue from Caesars Sportsbook & Casino, the $11.8 million from Caesars Palace's and the $2.6 million from WynnBet place Caesars as the fourth-best iGaming brand in Michigan. The company's proactive efforts to improve its market standing include launching a new online casino app and brand, offering competitive promotions, and expanding its slot inventory in the Great Lakes.

Caesars Palace's announcement about the progressive mega jackpot for Siberian Storm and its plans for future expansions demonstrate the company's commitment to providing thrilling gaming experiences and maintaining its position as a leading operator in Michigan. As the anticipation builds for the new casino app launch and the potential for life-changing wins on Siberian Storm continues to grow, Michigan's iGaming market remains a dynamic and exciting landscape for players and operators alike.

LeoVegas, a prominent player in the live casino, online casino, and sports betting sectors, is all set to significantly enhance its footprint in the U.S. market. The company has recently announced its acquisition of Tipico Group Ltd., the online casino and sportsbook technology and product platform - a notable move as Tipico winds down its operations in the US. This strategic deal also includes the acquisition of Tipico’s US technology, trading, and management teams, encompassing regions across the US, Europe, and Colombia.

A strategic scaling back by Tipico

Based in Stockholm and operating out of Malta, LeoVegas is actually an affiliate of MGM Resorts International. At the moment, the firm manages nine brands across ten jurisdictions. Meanwhile, Tipico is the leading sports betting operator in Germany with headquarters in Malta, and it has recently appointed its new Chief Executive Officer, Axel Hefer.

At the same time, Gary Fritz, MGM Resorts International Interactive president, emphasized the significance of this acquisition in a statement. He mentioned that the acquisition of Tipico's award-winning platform in the US marks a substantial milestone and strategy in MGM Resorts' global digital gaming arm, and it allows them to operate an exclusive sports betting platform. In addition, Fritz added that the deal provides MGM Resorts with full control over its whole tech ecosystem and praised the integration of Tipico's experienced US team, which is well-known for their superior pricing and product development and capabilities.

Building on prior investments

This acquisition follows LeoVegas' substantial investment in 2023, when, as you may already be aware, it acquired the game developer Push Gaming. The current deal with Tipico is seen as another pivotal step in LeoVegas' plans of international growth and expansion. By integrating Tipico's platform, LeoVegas aims to operate and manage a customized and branded sportsbook that is spread across all its international brands and markets.

Adrian Vella, the Chief Executive Officer of Tipico US, highlighted the company's achievements, stating, "Tipico has proven in one of the most competitive markets in the world that we can build proprietary technological solutions while running sophisticated lean operations."

On the other hand, Gustaf Hagman, the CEO of the LeoVegas Group, echoed this sentiment, noting that at LeoVegas Group, they believe in controlling their own technical destiny by having the best tech teams working in-house. Hagman continues, "Last year, we acquired leading game developer Push Gaming. Now, we are taking further steps and investing to control more parts of the iGaming technology ecosystem."

LeoVegas and Tipico looking ahead amidst stronger ties

The transaction between LeoVegas and Tipico is slated for completion in the third quarter of 2024. This acquisition is expected to further strengthen LeoVegas' position in the global digital gaming market, enhancing its technological capabilities and further expanding its market reach. With this strategic move, LeoVegas is ready to leverage Tipico's advanced platform and expert team to deliver superior gaming experiences across its international portfolio.

It can be said that LeoVegas' continued investments and strategic acquisitions underscore its commitment to innovation and leadership in the highly competitive iGaming world. As the company integrates Tipico's assets and expertise, its goal is to deliver enhanced value and experience to its customers while driving growth in the global market.