Smoke 'Em If You Got 'Em: Bally's Shareholders Buck Trend, Vote Down Smoking Ban Study
Shareholders of Bally's vote against implemented smoking ban in casino premises.
Bally's shareholders have thumbed their noses at a proposal to investigate a smoking ban in their casinos, with the majority opting to keep the ashtrays lit. Reason being, they believe a smoking ban could crater their profits. One shareholder, known for their candor, said, "C'mon, we're in the casino biz fer cryin' out loud! Anybody knows messin' with the smokin' policy is a straight-up recipe for loss in dough."
One significant factor in the rejection of the proposal is the fear that a smoking ban could harm the bottom line. Smoking, they argue, is integral to the casino experience for plenty of patrons. If they yank the smoking privilege, they could lose these revenue-generating punters, leading to a revenue nose-dive. Some shareholders pointed out that casinos in other parts of the country with smoking bans have been in the red ever since implementing the ban. "We've witnessed other casinos struggle mightily with revenues post-smoking bans," another shareholder remarked.
Supporters of public health are miffed by the decision. They claim the well-being of employees and patrons should be top priorities. A smoke-free environment, they assert, would bring in more non-smoking customers and provide a healthier work environment for employees. Secondhand smoke is well-known for causing a slew of health issues, and they think this issue warrants greater attention. "The health of our workforce should be foremost," one health advocate insisted.
While the proposal was shot down, the discussion over smoking in casinos is unlikely to end anytime soon. As more folks become smoke-savvy, awareness of the health problems linked to secondhand smoke is growing, and this topic is likely to resurface during future meetings, as both sides have strong opinions on the matter. For now, Bally's will keep the smoking areas open, with one shareholder noting, "We gotta balance customer satisfaction with health issues. It ain't easy."
It's Complicated, Baby!
Despite the no-go on the study, the regulatory dance over smoking in casinos is only heating up. Here's what's on the horizon:
- Employee Health Risks: Employees at Bally's casinos in Lincoln and Tiverton have raised concerns about enjoying an unwanted dance with secondhand smoke, citing cancer as just one of the risks[3][4].
- Competitive Edge: Bally's Corporation has cited the need to maintain a competitive edge against neighboring casinos that don't have a smoking ban[3].
- Economic Impact: Smoking areas are thought to draw in some patrons, especially those who love slot machines in the smoking sections[3].
Rumblings in the Legislative Pit
- Let's Get It Statewide: A proposed bill is moving through Rhode Island's General Assembly that aims to ax smoking exemptions for casinos, forcing Bally's to go smoke-free[1][4].
- Following the Pack: As more states and casinos embrace smoke-free policies, Bally's might find themselves under pressure to adapt to remain competitive and appeal to a broader audience[2].
What's a Casino to Do?
- Cost Savings and Risks: Implementing a smoke-free policy could result in savings on employee health insurance and maintenance, but the impact on immediate revenue might be a concern[1][2].
- Playing to the Crowd: With the majority of Americans favoring smoke-free environments, adopting such policies could elevate Bally's reputation and attract more non-smoking patrons[2].
The Bottom Line: Health and Revenue
- Better Breathin': Prohibiting indoor smoking would eliminate secondhand smoke exposure risks for employees and guests, aligning with CDC recommendations for eliminating indoor smoke health risks[1][4].
- Hangin' On to Talent: Employees who have considered jumping ship due to smoking concerns might stay put if a smoke-free policy is adopted, potentially boosting staff morale and retention[3].
- Despite rejecting the study, the decision to allow smoking in Bally's casinos is contested as more people become aware of health problems linked to secondhand smoke.
- Employees at Bally's casinos in Lincoln and Tiverton have shared concerns about health risks, citing cancer as one of the risks associated with working in smoking areas.
- In an attempt to maintain a competitive edge, Bally's Corporation has cited the need for smoking areas, arguing that they attract certain patrons, such as those who prefer slot machines in smoking sections.
- A proposed bill in Rhode Island's General Assembly aims to abolish smoking exemptions for casinos, potentially forcing Bally's to implement a smoke-free policy in their establishments.
- Implementing a smoke-free policy could result in cost savings through reduced employee health insurance and maintenance costs, while also potentially boosting Bally's reputation by aligning with the majority of Americans favoring smoke-free environments and attracting more non-smoking patrons.
