New Jersey casinos know that they can not survive if there will be a smoking ban. They fear economic suffering. They are saying that smoke-free blackjack tables and slot parlors would cause job losses and even cut the state's share of casino revenues.
Gambling and smoking just seem to be things that go together. Many if they caught word on this issue may decide it is better to go over state lines to gamble and smoke at the same time. If this would happen, this would cost the state an estimated $93 million in revenue, at least in the first two years. It is vital that the state has this money since $80 million goes to programs for seniors and disabled persons. This is all according to the analysis undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers, sponsored by the Casino Association of New Jersey.
The ban could lead to the loss of 3,400 jobs in Atlantic City's casino industry, and could result in $175 million in lost wages, according to the "Smoking Ban Economic Effect Analysis." They are also the same company that has analyzed the Delaware racinos in the past. New Jersey, as a state, gets 8% of the revenue earned by casinos. |
