Poll Finds Strong Support for Casino Smoking Ban Among South Jersey Voters

Atlantic City, N.J. — A new poll shows overwhelming support among South Jersey voters for a complete smoking ban in Atlantic City casinos, with 83% in favor of the change and 79% saying they would be more likely to visit if smoking were no longer allowed indoors. The survey, which polled 400 adults in eight southern counties between April 3 and 8, found that a majority of voters would view state lawmakers and the governor more favorably if they enacted the ban. While New Jersey banned smoking in most indoor workplaces in 2006, casinos were specifically exempted. Smoking is currently permitted in up to 25% of the gaming floor in Atlantic City, but critics say secondhand smoke spreads throughout. The debate over indoor smoking has been one of the most contentious issues in the city’s casino industry. Casino workers, supported by some labor unions, have pushed for stronger protections from secondhand smoke. Opponents, including the casino industry and another major union, argue a ban could harm revenue and jobs. The state Legislature has not held a hearing on the bill in more than a year, despite bipartisan support and a promise from Gov. Phil Murphy to sign the measure into law if passed. With Murphy term-limited, advocates say candidates in the 2025 election should prioritize the issue. The poll was conducted by Normington Petts, with a margin of error of plus or minus 4.9 percentage points.