Topic Of The Week: The Smoking Ban

[Steve]

Mike sent in the Topic Of The Week question:

What do you think of the new smoking ban in Las Vegas? Currently, it does not apply to the major casinos (I believe the language is that it does not cover casinos with unrestricted licenses). Should it? If the ban covers the all casinos, will that change whether you will visit Las Vegas (visit more, less or the same)? Do you have any ideas on a better way to implement a smoking ban other than the current one (that is temporarily on hold)?

Please remember to be "nice' when responding to this question. It is for stating your opinion, and it is not to be turned into a debate, ok? :)
Steve

[allison04]

It will reduce the frequency we visit Las Vegas. Although my wife and I smoke, we do limit our smoking and we will usually ask if others at the table mind if we smoke. Occasionally prefer not to smoke and we have encountered rude smokers that are not considerate of the rights of the other people at the table or on the machine next to them. If smoking is prohibited, we are not willing to "go outside" for a cigarrette and we will definitely limit our visits to Las Vegas.

[jcosta]

I would probably frequent casinos more if they were smoke free. It takes me quite a while to get my breathing capacity back after a visit.

[ThoseEyes]

"STATE QUESTION NO. 5

Amendment to Title 15 of the Nevada Revised Statutes

Shall Chapter 202 of the Nevada Revised Statutes be amended in order to
prohibit smoking tobacco in certain public places, in all bars with a
food-handling license, but excluding gaming areas of casinos and certain
other locations."

The 112 page booklet we got which contains a Sample Ballot had 5 pages of
discussion beyond the question itself. I won't copy the discussion,
arguments etc., but the explanation is as follows:

"The proposed amendment, if passed, would prohibit smoking tobacco within
indoor places of employment including the following locations: child care
facilities; movie theaters; video arcades government buildings; public
places malls; retail establishments; all parts of grocery stores; all bars
with a food-handling license; and all indoor restaurants. Smoking tobacco
would also be prohibited within school buildings and on school property."

"Smoking tobacco would continue to be allowed at the following locations;
areas within casinos where loitering by minors is prohibited; stand-alone
bars, taverns and saloons; strip clubs or brothels retail tobacco stores;
and private residences, including a residence that serves as an office
workplace. A stand-alone bar, tavern or saloon means an establishment
devoted primarily to the sale of alcohol, in which food service is limited
to the sale of prepackaged food items that are exempt from Nevada
food-handling license requirements."

"The proposed amendment would also allow a county, city or town to adopt
tobacco control measures stricter than those provided in the text of the
Question itself."

"The proposed amendment would also require "No Smoking" signs to be
conspicuously posted at locations where smoking tobacco is prohibited."

[divefl]

Smoking allowed in all casinos with a certain level of ventilation that allows me not to walk out smelling like a ashtray? I never notice it in the casino with higher ceilings.

They could ban drinking in casinos and I would still go (but often comment about my parched throat). I know what my stronger addiction is.

[corinne]

It would make no difference to me on how long I spend in the casinos if there was a smoking ban or not but it would make the experience so much nicer if I didn't have to inhale everyone else's second hand cigarette smoke, not to mention cigar smoke which should be banned everywhere as that is exceptionally antisocial. Why can't they have part of the casino for no smokers? I, for one, would be quite happy if the whole of Vegas was no smoking but that's never going to happen - is it??????

[divefl]

It will reduce the frequency we visit Las Vegas. Although my wife and I smoke, we do limit our smoking and we will usually ask if others at the table mind if we smoke. Occasionally prefer not to smoke and we have encountered rude smokers that are not considerate of the rights of the other people at the table or on the machine next to them. If smoking is prohibited, we are not willing to "go outside" for a cigarrette and we will definitely limit our visits to Las Vegas.

So now you don't want to visit Vegas, California, New York, DC, parts of MD, Florida ...
You can always do the tobacco plant tours in Virginia.

[Sandyski]

While I agree that the government has the right to ban smoking in Federal, State and Local government buildings, I do not think it is their right to infringe on owners of private businesses.
I would allow businesses to make their own decisions whether to ban smoking. If a business feels that it is best for them to ban smoking then they would get business from non smokers. It would give customers the choice as well as the businesses. Non smokers would give their business to those who ban smoking and smokers would give their business to places that allow smoking. Workers can choose to work in non smoking establishments.

In NYC, they are banning food establishments from using trans fats in their food because trans fats aren't healthy. They no longer serve whole milk in schools.
The government keeps taking away our rights to choose. Where will it end?

[bishop9990]

we smokers are constantly getting vilified for our habits! amarillo texas tried to establish a smoking ban on all area restaurants and public buildings. it was shot down by the voters because the 25-foot rule was outrageous! we'd have to literally smoke in the street to comply with the ban. at area schools it is against the law to smoke on school property. a person can go to jail for violating this law. if las vegas wants to prohibit smoking in certain areas then that is ok. however, a complete smoking ban would not work. casinos can provide smoking areas away from other patrons or they can provide sections where smokers can still play and enjoy themselves. would i still come to vegas if a smoking ban goes into effect? yes but i would still smoke in my car, on the sidewalk and in my motel room. it would hinder my enjoyment of going to vegas in many ways and i'm sure i'm not the only smoker who feels this way. there are ways to appease the non-smokers without penalizing us smokers.

[Nevada]

As allways being a non smoker it has never stoped me from going to any place where there is smoking if in a casino most people blow the smoke away from you except for a few who don,t care where there smoke goes. If it starts bothering me i move to another place maybe the smoker didn,t want me sitting next to them that is how they keep there space:D

[parama]

Complete smoking ban long overdue. Time to get civilized. Casinos in Ontario, Canada have been non-smoking since April 2006. The world moves on. No big fuss AND not one smoker has died from NOT BEING allowed to smoke. - parama

[divefl]

This ban isn't even talking about gaming areas. Everyone would still have the right to have an anxiety smoke at the tables while I have my right as a nonsmoker to have a clean airbubble around me to shield me from your smoke. Where is my head, I have no such right. Light up, this regulation has little substance. Shouldn't this "ban" be a non issue for whether or not you come to vegas.

[amygiraffe]

:) We have now had a smoking ban in Washington state for 1 year now. It is absolutely wonderful! I never smell like smoke when I go out, and in fact, more people are going out now. You can still smoke in our casinos, but there is a non-smoking room in the casino to play slots without someone smoking near you. There are also non-smoking tables in the main casinos, but the ceiling is very high and it doesn't smell too bad while there. I do think the smoking ban has driven more people to the casinos where they can sit and smoke in peace. I guess I would go there for that same reason if I was forced to go outside to smoke. At the same time, I should be allowed to gamble without sitting by a smoker. I love the casinos here for giving us the non-smoking room, which is often at full capacity with non-smoking patrons.
I would love to see more non-smoking sections in the Las Vegas casinos. I do appreciate the newer casinos and their higher ceilings and better ventilation. We do play more at those casinos so we are able to breathe while playing.
I know people do not enjoy being told what to do and where to do it, but as a nurse, I am a huge supporter of the non-smoking ban. Think of all the people who only smoke when they go out to bars, gamble etc. Now they will never light up. Even a few less cigarettes a day is on the road to having no cigarettes a day. My guess is that in the future insurance companies will start making smokers pay more, or not cover them at all. Being around heart procedures everyday, so many of the bigger and more costly procedures are on smokers.
If we can save even a few peoples lives, and prevent second hand smoke lung cancer, it is truly worth it. Besides, atleast in Las Vegas you don't have to deal with smoking in the freezing cold weather while being 25 feet away from a building. Think of it as exercise.

[gerryg6]

I am not a smoker and have not found very many considerate smokers. I once sat next to a smoker and the air was pulling the smoke into my face. I asked if he would mind not smoking and he said, "Lady if you domnt like smoke you should stay the hell out of casinos." That was the last time that I asked someone if they would please not smoke.

[stevevarro]

Personally as a non-smoker, I would like to see a ban on smoking in all public places.

However an alternative is to do like the airport in Vegas does... Have a smoking area that is closed off from the rest of the Casino. They did the reverse of this at a casino in Henderson, NV.

Steve

P.S. I do appreciate smokers like (allison04) who do ask if their smoking would bother those around them. Unfortunatly, not all smokers are so kind.

[Sherry]

My husband and I are both smokers, however, we can refrain from smoking in businesses serving food, but NO SMOKING in a casino, please! I would think this policy would definately hurt the casino business. We visited a casino where there was a no smoking section and it appeared these people looked content, otherwise, they would not have been there. Lawmakers don't seem to stop the drinking in these places. :confused: Sherry

[bbev53]

I was in Las Vegas in early December and I did not feel comfortable smoking in the casinos. I am a smoker, but I chose to stay in a nonsmoking room and I did not smoke as much this trip - either in the casinos or on the streets. If they ban smoking all together I will probably keep going, but I won't be gambling in the casinos for extended periods of time. [

[parisbill]

I'm somewhat of a Libertarian and I believe that it is up to the individual regarding their personal health issues. Everyone knows that smoking is not good for you and that a majority of smokers will eventually die as a result of smoking

I'm still not sure regarding second hand smoking causing cancer?

What I do know is ..... that the long term future will include a no smoking ban in casinos.

I myself do not smoke but I do enjoy a cigar at times at Casinos.

[ronnie2000]

How many of the casinos in Vegas are private businesses??? Own stock in a company, it's not a private business. SO, with that being said, I'd agree with what Sandyski says....in effect, don't ban the cancer causing elements in the PRIVATE businesses, but ban it in ALL areas of the stockholder owned businesses. As far as how it will effect how often we go to Vegas, it won't make a difference. Niether one of us smokes and my wife is allergic to smoke. If a smoker is considerate when they sit at our table, and everyone else is NOT smoking, they'd not even ask if it's ok to light up....they should know we are all enjoying the clean air and we don't wish for it to become polluted by burning paper and leaves filled with chemicals.

Do people go to Vegas TO SMOKE or BECAUSE they smoke?? Don't think so. Restaurants that ban smoking do just as good a business as they did before the ban and I live in NC, HOME OF TOBACCO :eek: If someone does go to Vegas just because they smoke, gambling is the least of their worries. If there was a ban on smoking in every building in the country, even houses, smokers would still have 95% of the country in which to smoke. Just do it outdoors where it will disapate with little damage to others lungs.

Ron in NC:D

While I agree that the government has the right to ban smoking in Federal, State and Local government buildings, I do not think it is their right to infringe on owners of private businesses.
I would allow businesses to make their own decisions whether to ban smoking. If a business feels that it is best for them to ban smoking then they would get business from non smokers. It would give customers the choice as well as the businesses. Non smokers would give their business to those who ban smoking and smokers would give their business to places that allow smoking. Workers can choose to work in non smoking establishments.

In NYC, they are banning food establishments from using trans fats in their food because trans fats aren't healthy. They no longer serve whole milk in schools.
The government keeps taking away our rights to choose. Where will it end?

[divefl]

Look, I don't smoke, but I am friends with many people who do. I go out with them. They smoke. I don't think smokers are intentionally out to get non-smokers, but you can't control smoke no matter how hard you try. And most smokers are nice and do try to blow their smoke up, or hold the cigarette aways. Depending on air flow it still seems to aim at people. I would no demand an all over smoking ban, but the idea of corralling the cigarettes is nice.

And you can't compare a smoking ban to a trans fat ban or drinking ban. You just can't. If I go to a restaurant with someone who orders a burger, I am not penalized for being with the person by having the burger smeared on me. The fumes of alcohol don't make me tipsy when I am sitting next to someone knocking them back at 9am. Smoking is different. I have honored the right to smoke for my whole life. This has ignored my right to inhale clean air. It is not possible to have both rights honored, so now it's my time to try this one out. I am not trying to say you are not giving something up (a measure of convenience) but regognize that I have also been forced to give up my convenience for smokers for while. There is no win all, everyone is happy end to this debate. So, I'm going to be selfish for a bit until some 'smoke is healty for your heart' study comes out. Villify me if you want, but I am being no more selfish than smokers have had a right to be for years. But just in restaurants and unregulated casinos.

[toejamdoc]

Its not going to change how often I will go to Vegas. As a non- smoker and NY'er, I do like to find a Casino with a good ventilation system, and I've found Treasure Island to be among the best. I have long accepted smoking as part of life in Vegas and don't really complain about it. I always throw all my clothing in large white plastic bags when I return home before I get to the laundry as everything reeps of smoke.

I didn't think the smoking ban in NY would work, but it has become an accepted part of life here and I'm sure healthier because of it.

I also am very concerned about Government regulations on just about everything. I am however fine with regulations that affect the health and well being of others. It has become apparent that smoking affects people in an adverse way and bans to protect people who want to keep their health are really not a bad thing, even if it involves Casinos. The big obvious regulation to keep the well being of otheres is drinking while driving. In NY, we also have seat belt laws, and though these recent new regulations don't necessarily protect others, your use of a seat belt should be a personal decision and in my opinion is an example of over regulation by the government as here the constant ticketing at early morning road blocks, by New Yorks finest has led to nothing less than blood money for the city and state.

[Hockey53]

I stopped smoking in Jan.1987,so it wouldn't bother me about the smoking ban in casinos. As long as the ventilation systems are working well in the casinos,you hardly notice the smoke. There are sometimes where my wife and I would leave a casino because of too much smoke and not feeling comfortable and also feeling nausated(sp).

[leighw55]

I do not smoke, but my husband does. He does not smoke inside our home at all. And even he has commented on how bad his clothes stink like smoke after being in a bar or casino where smoking is allowed. I even get a bad headache from breathing alot of smoke for an extended period. We live in WA state, and a non smoking ban was passed here last year. Alot of the bars complained and tried petitioning the state, but eventually they all gave up and are complying with the new law. I think it has made it better for everyone. Even my husband does not mind going outside to smoke. And most of the bars have put a smoking area outside and when it is cold, they even have a covered area and propane heaters going. It's bad enough when a person smokes themselves, but it's even worse to breath all that secondhand stuff too. I really do not think it has hurt business here, in fact in some cases I think it has helped. I myself, really look forward to being in smoke free casinos next time I visit.

[Alohafri]

As a non-smoker, I would prefer that smoking was banned everywhere. However, if a considerate smoker sits down next to me and notices that I don't smoke and asks if I mind if he smokes, depending on how the breeze was blowing, I would probably say "go for it"...then light up a cigar. ;) We were at the Center Bar at the Strat on our last night playing video poker and enjoying our last Bailey's night cap and this guy sat down next to us and started smoking, lighting one off of the smoldering butt off of his last one. Naturally he was sitting in such a place that the wind from the opening door was blowing his smoke toward us. It got so bad that we had to get up and leave.

[Mary]

I would not change the number of times I go to Vegas, which is around 2-3 times a year. but it would be nice to have a no smoking section for those that do not smoke.

[tugboat]

I Will Probably Visit The Same Amount To Vegas Because We Usually Can Only Get Out There Once A Year. But I Would Love The Idea Of No Smoking Because I Hate Walking Out Of A Place Smelling Like A Ash Tray. Or When You Get Seated In A Resturant Next To A Smoking Section And Some One Lights One Up And It Takes Your Breath Away.

[jorich]

We are both smokers and would hate to see the smoking ban in Vegas. It's bad enough every where else!!! We both love Vegas but I think it would change our habits on going there.

[Don21]

I don't smoke but don't mind a bit of smoke as long as it's not blowing on me. It's time for people to get real and realize there is much more important things happenning around the world just on our back door step.

I think that Las Vegas was built by Gamblers, Drinkers and Smokers. Why change it now. If you don't like smoke then go somewhere where there is non smoking but don't make it everywhere. Smokers(our founders) have rights too. Way too much big brother control as it is right now. And to the Anti Smoking Nazie's, get a life! your trying to take over what historically was someone else's fun, enjoyment and entertainment.

Personally I find smokers and drinkers to be more fun at a table then the straits..seems they are easier going and just much funner people than the miserable Anti-Smoking Nazies.

Edit: Wouldn't make a difference for me but it would for lots.
Don

[hockeymom26]

If they implemented a smoking ban in the LV casinos I'd stay home. I can visit casinos closer to home that have smoking sections. There are casinos in Vegas that do have non smoking sections ( Excalibur) But, for the most part they are empty.
There are also rude non smokers as well as rude smokers, rude drunks, rude overweight people, rude skinny people and so on.
I have no problem with the ban in bars, places that serve food etc.
As for the health problems, someone mentioned. We all know smoking is bad.
But, some of us do it. So is alcohol, and it can kill you and others as well.
In Canada,with our universal health care, I personally can't wait until they ban fast food places. We all know that obesity and high cholestrol causes heart attacks and numerous other problems that are also a drain on our health care systems. Give government long enough and they will ban anything they can. I think that is what the majority of people have a problem with, is the government telling them what to do.

[JMVegas5866]

While I agree that the government has the right to ban smoking in Federal, State and Local government buildings, I do not think it is their right to infringe on owners of private businesses.
I would allow businesses to make their own decisions whether to ban smoking. If a business feels that it is best for them to ban smoking then they would get business from non smokers. It would give customers the choice as well as the businesses. Non smokers would give their business to those who ban smoking and smokers would give their business to places that allow smoking. Workers can choose to work in non smoking establishments.

In NYC, they are banning food establishments from using trans fats in their food because trans fats aren't healthy. They no longer serve whole milk in schools.
The government keeps taking away our rights to choose. Where will it end?

You have the right to vote. Your rights aren't being taken away. Obviously people voted on Nevada's Q5 on the ballot and people voted for Q5.

Someone specifically quoted what Q5 entails as far as where smoking is or isn't prohibited and I don't think many people read it. It says "Smoking tobacco would continue to be allowed at the following locations;
areas within casinos where loitering by minors is prohibited; stand-alone
bars, taverns and saloons; strip clubs or brothels retail tobacco stores;
and private residences, including a residence that serves as an office
workplace."

Was the word 'casino' invisible to most of you who are promising you will no longer go to Vegas as often anymore, or did you just not read the whole thing?

Q5 isn't taking away your right to smoke. It's simply regulating where you can and can't. Point is you are still allowed to smoke. They didn't say you can't smoke at all. Don't even try to compain your rights are being taken away. That argument isn't even valid because they aren't taking away smoking all together. Too bad, the US Government steps in on certain things and determines whats good and what is bad for you. Thats the way it has been with food, drugs, booze, tobacco, etc for many years. Perhaps you might consider re-locating to another country if you are unsatisfied with the US Government. Take your pick: South America, Russia, China, Canada. Sorry but I am tired of people dogging the US and I am tired of people being so critical of what others vote for or against wether it is the presidency or a smoking bill.

On this one citizens of Nevada had the option to choose. Noone was stripped of their right to choose.

[BaysiderGene]

I'm a 60-year-old former heavy smoker; I quit cold turkey 09 Jan 86, and I never smoked again. I don't think casinos should ban smoking; I thoroughly enjoyed smoking--there is no greater pleasure than a good cigarette with strong black coffee or a stiff drink. Somewhere I read that about 60% of gamblers are smokers, but I dispute that; I believe that figure is way out-of-date. I believe that only about 40% of gamblers are smokers. I find pipe tobacco pleasant--especially cherry; however, cigar smoke is horrendously odious. I don't mind cigarette smoke, but I hate to find ashes or butts where I gamble.

Casinos should have smoking areas which are prominently labeled and TRULY SEPARATED from non-smoking areas. Smoke does indeed travel from one room to another, though high ceilings and superior air filtration minimize such ambient smoke. When I go into an area with smokers, I'll very quietly move any ashtrays at my machine, to silently signal my non-smoking preference to other gamblers. Most gamblers will accommodate their non-smoking brethren by blowing smoke AWAY from you, moving their ashtray, refraining from smoking, or leaving the immediate area. Even in major casinos such as Harrah's properties, the non-smoking areas amount to a few banks of machines or tables which are entirely open to ambient smoke. Just imagine the smoke intake non-smoking employees endure--especially the drink girls!

Gene
Bayside, WI 53217

[magicfish]

I said it before, I'll say it again.
In my city (Austin, TX) the voters recently passed a no smoking bill. All the bar and club owners had a fit, there was much legal wrangling, and in the end the ban went into effect. Business did NOT suffer.

Difficult question, let's see.....

Do I want to stop having bad reactions to smoke in Vegas?
Do I want to have my clothing not wreak? Do I want to stop having to use Febreeze every evening in Vegas?
Do I wish to not have my hair stink in Vegas?
Do I want to not have (even) my purse wreak for a week after I return home?
Do I want to not have to treat my luggage for smoke after I return home?

YES YES YES

That being said, I cannot see Vegas banning smoking in casinos any time in the predictable future.

Would I visit more often - perhaps not. Would I stay and gamble longer without smoke.

YES YES YES

[joannek1]

No smoking is great for me and my 2 sisters--All of us have respiratory
problems.

Joanne/Barbara & Jeanne

[garagesaler21]

Seems to me that several years ago the casino,formerly known as the Silver City, went to be completely no smoking and did not last long. The problem with no smoking areas in bigger casinos is that usually they are very small and in out of the way places so that if one needs to move around for a more productive machine, table, etc. there is no place to go except into the smoke filled jungle. Circus Circus used to have that back area of machines designated no smoking but it was small and crowded. I think cigar and pipes should definitely be outlawed in casinos and I would like to see the spaces divided up equally for smokers and non smokers. I am a non smoker and hate smelling like a chimney....half the time we just wear the same clothes on our visits because there is no need to change as they will be smelly after 10 minutes around a smoker anyway. Here, in our home town, we have riverboats and my husband and I have a riverboat wardrobe that we only wear to the boats and can wash as soon as we get home...This includes coats, hats, the whole works, plus my purse which is saved only for the boat use and then changed for my every day purse.

[stevevarro]

If they implemented a smoking ban in the LV casinos I'd stay home. I can visit casinos closer to home that have smoking sections. There are casinos in Vegas that do have non smoking sections ( Excalibur) But, for the most part they are empty.



By the time the Vegas casinos are non-smoking, all the other casinos around the country will have long been made into non smoking buildings.

The reason those Non Smokings areas are nearly empty, are the same reason that the smoking areas in the airport casino areas were almost always empty. ... No one like to be religated to an area off the main area. How would smokers like to have to go into a side room to gamble? I think most would rather hold off smoking for a couple hours in order to enjoy the main casino area, rather than being told they had to go into another room un order to smoke.

[jslocke52]

I have never been a smoker and I prefer not to be exposed to tobacco smoke, so I would rather not have people smoking when I am in the casinos.

California has banned smoking in all business establishments. The ban was implemented in stages and the bars were among the last establishments to be included in the ban. It was thought that smokers couldn't drink without having a cigarette, but many smokers have managed to adapt.

I don't believe that the California ban would have been implemented without the support of a large number of smokers, who want to cut back their smoking or quit altogether. If they must go outside to smoke, they will smoke less than they would if they could light up wherever they are.

In general, I believe in minimal government interference into what people are allowed to do and not do. I don't, in general, believe in one group (non-smokers) forcing its ways on another (smokers). However, when a significant number of smokers support the ban, I lend my support.

The government isn't telling you that you can't smoke; it is just telling you where you may not smoke while there are still places to smoke.

For Las Vegas, the bottom line will be the effect of a smoking ban on business. Many voters depend on the casino business for their employment and will vote against any measure that might result in a significant drop in tourism.

Each casino has the right to ban smoking altogether on its premises, or restrict smoking to certain areas. So far, I am unaware of any major casino that has done so. The business case for attracting nonsmokers at the expense of driving away smokers hasn't been strong enough. Part of the problem is that people travel in groups and, if one member of the group is a smoker, the whole group is likely to bypass the non-smoking establishment. Instead, the group will opt for a smoking establishment with fairly decent ventilation. The preferred approach would be to allow the businesses to choose to be either smoking or non-smoking, but that just does not work. Across the board is working in California.

[sean]

Sorry but I like a cigar when I gamble.

[vu-doo]

I smoke . and i have no problem with the ban on smoking in restaurants. we have the same law here in Little Rock AR. it only applys to restaurants and stores. Bars still allow smoking if they restrict people under 21 from entering.
I don't think they will get smoking outlawed on the casino floor. that would hurt the casinos business. Some of the casinos in Mississippi have non smoking slot areas. but they are not near as many people in those areas.


I play poker and the majority of poker rooms ban smoking . and i am fine with that.

[krisfarnsworth]

As a person who grew up with 3 smokers in a home and has NEVER smoked I have what the Doctors call a pre emphisyma condition which means I could develop it later in life I am 38. My husband has sleep apnea which is worsened when he is in smoky areas and rooms. I feel the smoking ban is a good thing and will help others like us who through no doing of our own have been affected by second hand smoke. We live where there are stronger bans Our State just passed a addition to our ban to now include outdoor gatherings of more then 50 people. We have a complete ban in bars private clubs and all other public buildings. I feel that if people choose to smoke they shouldn't kill those of us who have chosen to stay away from death.


Thanks Steve I will get off the soapbox now.:o

[skypinkblu]

I just got back from Las Vegas. We were there for 6 days...and I had to bring extra clothes because the smoke smell permeated everything. We stayed at New York NY and it was nice, but the bars seemed to bring out more smokers. I smoked for too many years, but stopped almost 20 years ago...and I just don't think I'll go back. A new Casino just opened in Yonkers ...YES! NEW YORK...and it's NON smoking...as much as I love Vegas, I spent way too much time coughing. I think if I hadn't been to a completely smoke free casino, it wouldn't have made such a difference...
Cigars were everywhere, they were even selling them from trays....lots and lots of people from outside the US, lots of smoking at every slot, I had to keep getting up and moving when someone would light up and take over the area. Sometimes, people would have two seats because they were blowing smoke. I was so excited when I heard that there was going to be a smoking ban...but very disappointed to find it didn't really make a difference.

[ArtNYC]

I am a smoker. I go to Las Vegas at least once a year because I enjoy smoking, drinking and gambling all at once. However, if smoking is ban in casinos, I will still visit Vegas with the same frequency - 2 out of 3, ain't bad.
Please let me digress a little.... all this smoking ban in Vegas (who knew?) come about because of the thousands who move there in recent years. Instead of moving to a place and blend in, these domestic immigrants expect to enforce their "values" upon their new homeland". If I move anywhere, it's because I like what the place has to offer in the first place. Vegas should remain Vegas aka Sin City. Smoking ban now, what's next? No drinking because alcohol can kill? Then what? No sex?

[polar]

Complete smoking ban long overdue. Time to get civilized. Casinos in Ontario, Canada have been non-smoking since April 2006. The world moves on. No big fuss AND not one smoker has died from NOT BEING allowed to smoke. - parama

You are right Parama,the world moves on,but it has been a big fuss here in Ontario. I work in one of the casinos(Niagara Falls), it might not have had an immeditate reaction back in the summer(the first day of the new law was June1) but let me tell you that it is a different story now. Crowds are much thinner ,but the casino just across the boarder(no smoking ban there) is full.

I am a gambler and a smoker,have gone to our casinos twice since the ban,will not go again. Would I go to Vegas if it were non-smoking? NO,no and no!I want the whole package when I am on my adult holiday. I firmly believe that there should be smoking and non-smoking areas, we all should be able to have choices, and be respectful of others.

I am sick and tired of our government shoving laws like these down our throats!! And by the way do you have any idea the reveue the government realizes from tobacco? Huge! They would have to recoup that somehow if people were to give up the habit. LOL,Polar

[dmfam]

My wife and I would not change our visits. I think the ban will improve the smell of casino's my memory of Atlantic City is tarished due to the great amount of smoke there.

[Toicat]

Greetings:

Being a resident of South Florida, I can say that I listened to all of the rhetoric about people that would not patronize bars and restaurants after the smoking ban was expanded a couple of years ago <It already covered other indoor areas such as office buildings and malls.>

The answer was that there was an increase in restaurant patrons, and bars simply added outdoor smoking areas.

Here's an idea...what about having non-smoking casino areas that are insulated from the rest of the building? Smelling like an ashtray only prompts me to shower more often to lose the tobacco oder.

Best to all for 2007 !

[Rbopo]

I do not smoke, and never have...!
A decision such as this should not be up to visiting people to decide.....
But then some people must bitch and moan everyday about something they dont agree with........! Whats next? No Alchole, No Adult Theme?
Let the owners make the decision what they want or do not want in thier own establishments.
jist as you have the right to belch and/or fart" in your own home, If someone don't like it, and don't want to smell it, they can find the damb door......! AND STAY THE HELL OUT.

[clbsedona]

I would enjoy the Casinos more if there was a smoking ban. My husband and I are really bothered by the smoke and some patrons are not considerate. Also some casinos do not have enough filtration. We are usually sick for a week afterwards. We would really go more often if there was no smoking.

[deecbell]

I am soooooooooooooo tired of the moaning and groaning about smoking.
Here in Texas, the legislature passed as of Jan 1,2007, a $1.00 per pack additional tax. Good grief. As far as casinos go, I KNOW there are areas with slot machines CLEARLY marked Non smoking area. The restaurants are all non smoking now, or at least they were when I was there last which was Sept.2006 I personally am more offended by people who pass gas and pretend it was someone else, or people who belch and think it is COOL. So leave us smokers somewhere to have fun. McCarren Airport has now done away with their smoking rooms which were totally separate. This is not a big deal when you are coming in, you can go down and while waiting for your luggage you can go outside. But leaving, which ususally involves getting to the airport 2 hours before your flight, this BITES.

And yes,I am a smoker and I think, i am considerate of others at the slot machine bank.

[maeve]

On my trip to Vegas I didn't even try to do any gambling as the smoke was so bad in the casinos. What a joke, asking the person next to you not to smoke. That's like thinking a bucket of water will put out a forest fire. I even left halfway through dinner in a restaurant as the smoke drifting in from the casino to the non smoking area where I was seated was so bad I couldn't stand it. After 24 hours in Vegas my eyes were so blood shot, it looked like I'd been on a week long cigar smoking bender, my sinuses were clogged and my throat was so sore I was loosing my voice. This was with me trying to avoid smoking areas as much as I could. I have no desire to go back to Vegas and experience this again, but I would certainly consider many more trips if a smoking ban goes into effect. It's been proven that second hand smoke causes serious health problems. I have no sympathy for the smokers who may have to go outside to feed their habit, but I do feel sorry for the people working in the service industry in Las Vegas who have to work in that smokey environment and the health problems they will face.

[ASTIDIXIE]

Lets put it this way.........I rarely go into places that will NOT allow smoking & if I do, because others want to..........I leave VERY early. Will it keep me from the casino........no, not as long as you can smoke in there..........but will it keep me from the restaurants & other places that ban smoking..........YES.........
I like to have a cig while I am waiting in the booth & with my coffee after I eat. So instead of frequenting the restaurants..........I will find only places I can eat the food while I am walking & forget sitting there giving them a nice tip! It is there loss of my money...........I am not one who needs a fancy meal..........I can survive nicely on a hot dog etc.......so I will no longer be staying inside ANY of the places were they ban smoking.............
Now, will it keep me from Vegas itself...........no. Just the places I willl frequent.

[riomantexas]

I will not gamble in Vegas until there is a smoking ban or entire craps tables are non-smoking. I have always hated smokers at a table. How arrogant can you be? I am biased as my father died of COPD in 2005. I went to New Orleans and Tahoe since then and played no more than 2 hours because of the disgusting odor and arrogance of smokers. I have stayed a lot at the Rio and always stayed for free. My lack of play gets me no more offers. I blame this on the arrogance of smokers. I stayed at Harvey's in Tahoe and Harrahs had tables that were non smoking except when I played a dude with a 50k bunch of chips was allowed to smoke. I left and complained and simply will not return until Casinos realize they have a hard enough time getting people to gamble I think the tide will turn one day. I realize it will be a long time for Vegas as smoking and gambling seems to be synonymous for some people. One post I read said they were considerate about non-smokers and ask others if its ok to smoke. Just as you take a restroom break when you gamble, you can combine that with a smoking break. I reurge what I said in my statement before the Houston City Council the day before they passed their ban - I won't crap in your lap if you don't blow smoke in my face. Yes smoking really is that disgusting and doesn't stay in the little spot where someone stands no matter how hard they try to blow it in a different direction. One day we will tell our grandkids that I was here when that let people blow smoke around and get in others clothes and lungs. I invite any naysayers to read the Surgeon General's report that came out this summer about the overwhelming evidence of the negative effects of second hand smoke - particularly lung cancer and COPD. Until visitors start complaining nothing will happen. I urge everyone to complain. Ask for a no smoking sign at your table. The exception for casinos reminds me of the past exceptions in Houston that allowed smoking in Corporate Booths at sporting events. Until casinos feel like they are going to lose money without a ban then I know it will be hard to change. If you are a Vegas local make your city council person feel bad about not getting their priorities straght and going all the way and having a full ban. Let them know that they are essentially saying on the one hand we are going to arrest hookers but not if they just smokin' and gamblin'. Thanks for the question.

[marydesj]

I was at a Conn. casino today. A woman sat down next to me and
REEKED of perfume. I moved. A non smoker can do the same if the smoke bothers them that much. We can't help the ventilation system's air direction.
All the "do-gooders" have taken away our pleasure in every other aspect (airports, restaurants, trains and most buildings) of our lifes. Next we won't be able to smoke in our cars or homes.
As far as going outside, the casinos will lose a lot of revenue when us smokers cash out and leave for 10 minutes or so. Maybe not to return!!
If that's the case, maybe we should go outside for a drink, too.
Casino workers are there for the tips and if they don't want to be around the smoke...... but, I have found that most people in the service industry do
smoke.
A casino could and should have both smoking and non smoking areas. Although the non smoking area is usually pretty empty (except the penny machines). Let us have a choice!!!!!
If I can't smoke I'll only be going once a year and only because of Nascar.

[MIKE]

and cancer takes people away from the gambling tables forever. Someone will win a big jackpot by inventing a cigarette substitute. I only smoke after sex. I will not give up those 10 smokes a year.

[amygiraffe]

Can we start a post on non-smoking options?? Which casinos have non-smoking areas and where are they?? Which casinos have the best ventilation systems??

Maybe we can start spreading the word on where to go and support the casinos who pay attention to our health. I would love to know where to spend my money on my next Vegas trip. I think the non-smoking areas are empty because no one knows where they are. I'm sure to get to many you need to walk through all of the smoke, but it's a small price to pay to sit at a machine or table for hours smoke free.

[pateboo]

I'm somewhat of a Libertarian and I believe that it is up to the individual regarding their personal health issues. Everyone knows that smoking is not good for you and that a majority of smokers will eventually die as a result of smoking

I'm still not sure regarding second hand smoking causing cancer?

What I do know is ..... that the long term future will include a no smoking ban in casinos.

I myself do not smoke but I do enjoy a cigar at times at Casinos.

How can anybody NOT be sure that second hand smoke causes cancer? Most deaths in fires are caused by smoke inhalation and not the flames. There are all kinds of nasty chemicals in those cigarettes and their smoke, and if there was a chemical spill of them somewhere, EVERYBODY in the area of it would be upset. My mother died a horrible death from 50 years of smoking. What she went through, I wouldn't wish on even Osama Bin Laden. Or maybe I would on the likes of him. Everyone should have to watch a movie on what a cancer patient goes through, I didn't have to watch a movie though, I had the real deal in front of me every day for six months in the form of my mother up until the day she died. If my mom weighed 40 pounds when she died I'd be surprised. She looked like a Holocaust survivor, couldn't swallow her own saliva, she wiped her mouth out with tissues instead, was in constant excruciating pain, on oxygen, when it was 40 degrees below zero outside, she was burning up from the radiation treatments and we had to have the windows open and a fan on her. If she wasn't throwing up blood, it was the other end giving her trouble. Her face and neck looked like Freddy Krueger, it was all charred and falling off from the radiation treatments, which by the way, she had to have four teeth pulled to accomodate the mask they put on her. My mother was a very modest and dignified woman. She was too embarrassed to have people see what she was reduced to, even immediate family. And you can forget about going to Vegas for all the good food, you'll be limited to cans of stuff that has about 4 or 5 kinds of oil in it, because that's all that will fit in your feeding tube. At my parents 50th Wedding Anniversary my mom sat there just watching their guests enjoy a great meal after she had a can of food poured directly into her stomach via her feeding tube. Maybe Wolfgang or Emeril will start making foods for feeding tubes one of these days. For the smokers who want to kill themselves that's their choice, unfortunately their smoke goes all over the place. I don't have a death wish. My mom died on Super Bowl Sunday of 2003. While every body else was planning parties, my family was planning my mom's funeral. When the funeral home people came to take her remains they loaded her onto a board. I can remember the sound of her bones hitting that board and the sight of them zipping her into a body bag to this day. Yesterday (Jan. 2) would have been my mom's birthday. If you love your friends and family, you wouldn't want them to have to witness your demise.:(

[dreamcatcheril]

Las Vegas
Sin City - smoking drinking gambling nudity.
You don't like it, don't go.

Las Vegas
It's changing into a Tourist Trap if it keeps changing it should be nick named TT City
$10.00 for 4 pancakes for breakfast in the coffee shop.

Ban smoking, what's next? nudity???

ban smoking in the casinos, I stay home.

[alosborn]

I live three miles fron AC. Try to get to Vegas at least twice a year for all the obvious reasons. The more Vegas gets like AC, the less sense it makes to make the five hour flight. Does this apply to all of Nevada or just to Vegas?

[zman14]

Put a seperate smoking section in hotels like they do in airports and smoke your brains out. As an ex-smoker (16 years now) I do not need to smell like an ashtray when I leave a casino, bowling alley, or restaurant. My only sympathy for smokers is that the poor suckers pay for everything in taxes but they get the short end of the stick after the laws are passed. In Ohio, specifically Cleveland, they've helped build the Cavaliers new arena and Jacobs Field, home of the Cleveland Indians but they can't smoke in either of the buildings. Now that sucks.


:p

[kidgarfield]

Most definitely will approve the banning of smoking inside all areas of a casino and would spend more time in the casinos.Although I support and a complete smoking ban, I would accept a closed-off smoking area. The smoke and overblown air conditioning is what has kept my daily gambling allotment to about an hour a day. Eliminating smoking would likely ease the need for overdoing the air-conditioning.
In the past, I would not sit at a table where someone was smoking, if they at least isolate the smoking area, I'll know not to go in that area.

[slhanson]

I agree that some women marrinate in cheap perfume and that is as bad as sitting next to a smoker (although you won't eventually die from it). Minnesota has a wonderful Indian casino that has a hugh no smoking section. Unfortunately it's hard to get a seat because it is always crowded. It has been my experience that smokers make the worst Black Jack players so I prefer to be at a non-smoking table. I am tired of having to take hermetically sealed clothes to wear on the plane home. Whether you have a no-smoking room or not you pick up that foul oder just walking through the casino to the door. Unfortunately (not in my time) all the smokers will go the way of the dinosauer, having killed themselves off. Pity the poor people they take with them because of second-hand smoke.

[mrsip]

Are you kidding?? Las Vegas is Sin City. Gambling goes hand-in-hand with smoking, drinking, partying. It's an adult environment. Vegas casinos know how to clean the air. Put a ban on smoking and what's next.....no more buffets because we'll get too fat! Watch it you complaining non-smokers, it first starts with smoking bans and now it's no more trans-fats. I will limit my visits if the smoking ban goes through. One more thing about all you cigarette smoke complainers, there are smoke-free slot areas, why the heck don't you use them. Also, there have been times when my husband had and unlit cigar in his hand and people demanded he put out his cigar!

All you non-smokers....stay the heck out of the casinos!!!

[hockeymom26]

You have the right to vote. Your rights aren't being taken away. Obviously people voted on Nevada's Q5 on the ballot and people voted for Q5.

Someone specifically quoted what Q5 entails as far as where smoking is or isn't prohibited and I don't think many people read it. It says "Smoking tobacco would continue to be allowed at the following locations;
areas within casinos where loitering by minors is prohibited; stand-alone
bars, taverns and saloons; strip clubs or brothels retail tobacco stores;
and private residences, including a residence that serves as an office
workplace."

Was the word 'casino' invisible to most of you who are promising you will no longer go to Vegas as often anymore, or did you just not read the whole thing?

Q5 isn't taking away your right to smoke. It's simply regulating where you can and can't. Point is you are still allowed to smoke. They didn't say you can't smoke at all. Don't even try to compain your rights are being taken away. That argument isn't even valid because they aren't taking away smoking all together. Too bad, the US Government steps in on certain things and determines whats good and what is bad for you. Thats the way it has been with food, drugs, booze, tobacco, etc for many years. Perhaps you might consider re-locating to another country if you are unsatisfied with the US Government. Take your pick: South America, Russia, China, Canada. Sorry but I am tired of people dogging the US and I am tired of people being so critical of what others vote for or against wether it is the presidency or a smoking bill.

On this one citizens of Nevada had the option to choose. Noone was stripped of their right to choose.

JMVEGAS,
I know I read it,but Steve's question was "If the ban covered all casinos will that change whether you visit Las Vegas?"
Hockeymom

[lvgecko]

First, I'm a smoker. That said, I like to drink and gamble and party, too. I live in Las Vegas. And, yeah, I'm a lot of fun! Anytime I've been shut out to the smoker's bench, everyone is always laughing and cutting up and having a really good time. And I've seen many a non-smoker join in just get in on the good times! I'll smoke wherever I'm allowed to, preferably a casino or a bar.

I've noticed that a lot of the bar and grill-type operations are not enforcing the smoking ban, which is alright with me. I thought we were going to have to say "goodbye" to one of the nicest pubs we've ever been to, but there were the ashtrays all over the bar and the smokers smoking and drinking and eating and having an all around good time. Maybe that makes me a law-breaker - so be it.

If laws are passed to take away smoking in public places - which is already the case, alcohol will probably be next, followed by gambling. Yes, there are true health risks associated with smoking, there are true health risks associated with drinking, there are true health/welfare risks associated with gambling. See a trend? No smoking, drinking, gambling in Las Vegas will turn this town into Anytown, USA - I didn't move here for that!

[polar]

You have the right to vote. Your rights aren't being taken away. Obviously people voted on Nevada's Q5 on the ballot and people voted for Q5.

Someone specifically quoted what Q5 entails as far as where smoking is or isn't prohibited and I don't think many people read it. It says "Smoking tobacco would continue to be allowed at the following locations;
areas within casinos where loitering by minors is prohibited; stand-alone
bars, taverns and saloons; strip clubs or brothels retail tobacco stores;
and private residences, including a residence that serves as an office
workplace."

Was the word 'casino' invisible to most of you who are promising you will no longer go to Vegas as often anymore, or did you just not read the whole



Q5 isn't taking away your right to smoke. It's simply regulating where you can and can't. Point is you are still allowed to smoke. They didn't say you can't smoke at all. Don't even try to compain your rights are being taken away. That argument isn't even valid because they aren't taking away smoking all together. Too bad, the US Government steps in on certain things and determines whats good and what is bad for you. Thats the way it has been with food, drugs, booze, tobacco, etc for many years. Perhaps you might consider re-locating to another country if you are unsatisfied with the US Government. Take your pick: South America, Russia, China, Canada. Sorry but I am tired of people dogging the US and I am tired of people being so critical of what others vote for or against wether it is the presidency or a smoking bill.

On this one citizens of Nevada had the option to choose. Noone was stripped of their right to choose.

The topic question here was"what if Vegas was non-smoking" that is what I responded to. If they were to also include casinos in the smoking ban.

LOl,Polar

[Jacqui, Duskette8]

I firmly believe that people should have the freedom to choose. As a non-smoker (ex-smoker, the worst kind!) I am pleased to see that there will be less smoke in Vegas but smokers should be given an area where they will be free to light up without infringing the rights of or simply irritating non-smokers. I understand that there are casinos elsewhere (Canada perhaps?) where smoking is permitted on an upper level of the casino and the rest is smoke free - this would be a good compromise, everyone has their own choice of where to go.

[shamu]

Casinos Love Smokers, They Know That They Can't Quit, Smoking Or Gambling. The House Always Wins. If A Smoker Really Wanted To Quit, They Would Go To There Nearest Hospital And See What We Cancer Patients Have To Go Thru To Try And Live Another Year. I Would Like To See The Casinos Work More With The Non-smoker. It Would Be So Much More Fun To Get Home And Not Remember The Fun Trip By The Smell Of Our Cloths.

[emmit1]

I'm not a smoker, but the ban wouldn't make a difference on how often I visit. What it would do is keep me from having to cash out and move when a chain smoker sits down beside me. Sometimes that isn't possible if the casino has a limited number of games I want to play.

[Deb]

I don't think it would stop me from going to Las Vegas.
Living in Califonia, I am used to more and more places banning smoking.
The Indian casinos have lots of none smoking space, I wonder why LV has not tried it?

[YJAJJ]

Mike sent in the Topic Of The Week question:

What do you think of the new smoking ban in Las Vegas? Currently, it does not apply to the major casinos (I believe the language is that it does not cover casinos with unrestricted licenses). Should it? If the ban covers the all casinos, will that change whether you will visit Las Vegas (visit more, less or the same)? Do you have any ideas on a better way to implement a smoking ban other than the current one (that is temporarily on hold)?

Please remember to be "nice' when responding to this question. It is for stating your opinion, and it is not to be turned into a debate, ok? :)
Steve


STEVE HOW CAN ONE BE NICE - I CAN'T BREATH AROUND SMOKERS!

AT 40 I QUIT (I'M 70 NOW) - AS I LOOK BACK I DID NOT CARE WHO MY SMOKE BOTHERED! TODAY I'M SORRY ABOUT THAT!

I HAVE HAD TO MOVE MANY TIMES TO GET TO A TABLE WITH NO SMOKERS!

AND YES I HAVE HAD SMOKERS ASK IF IT BOTHERED ME BEFORE THEY LIGHT UP!

THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY TO PUT IT INTO EFFECT - DO IT ACROSS THE BOARD - CANADA - ACROSS THE RIVER FROM ME DID IT - THE ONLY THING THAT HURT WAS THEY LOST THE SMOKERS AND THEIR MONEY - OH WELL I CAN PLAY IN A SAFE CASINO AND MY HEALTH IS BETTER FOR IT!

AND NO i'LL VISIT VEGAS AS OFTEN AS HEALTH ALLOWS!

JJ MI

[sandlind]

I Would Absolutly Love It. The Smoke Gives Me A Headache And I Hate The Smell In My Clothes Espically If I Want To Wear The Outfit More Than Once. The Smokers Can Go Outside...thank You!!!

[rifledude]

I smoked almost forever,but quit 3 years ago. The ban won't have an impact on me and the wife.

Even when I was a smoker I enjoyed the fresh air in non-smoking sections of casinos and buildings or other places.

Those fish bowls at Mc Carran were even too intense for me way back when.

[PTgirl]

If the ban covers the all casinos, will that change whether you will visit Las Vegas (visit more, less or the same)? Do you have any ideas on a better way to implement a smoking ban other than the current one (that is temporarily on hold)?

I would probably not visit as often. As a smoker, I prefer to be able to smoke while I am gambling. I live in Maryland, so I already live with with non-smoking in restaurants and most other indoor places. On vacation, I prefer going places where I can smoke (and those places are getting fewer all of the time!) I just returned from Las Vegas yesterday, and I was disappointed that the smoking rooms at McCarran Airport were closed. It would have been a deal breaker if the casinos banned smoking, too. Closer to home, I no longer visit any of the casinos in Deleware since they are non-smoking. West Virginia casinos still allow smoking and are roughly the same travel time for me, so they are my preferred local destination now. I also drive through Delaware to get to Atlantic City (although that city may eliminate their casinos' smoking ban exemption in the near future).

There are a growing number of casinos around the country that have smoking bans in place, and if a non-smoking casino was a priority to me, I would select those locations for my gambling.

I think separated (walled) smoking and non-smoking sections are a better alternative than a smoking ban. I do believe that at some point in the distant future all casinos will ban smoking, but I think that Las Vegas casinos will be the last to change. Just looking at the casino revenue declines in Delaware, Washington and Ontario since their smoking bans went into effect, I believe the casinos in Las Vegas will put a lot of money into fighting any ban on smoking in their casinos.

[flamingofun]

I'm a non smoker, so would like to see smoking banned everywhere. However, in Vegas, smokers have never bothered me. Maybe the ventilation is that good? Whatever, nothing can stop me from going to Vegas! I'm addicted!

[KenoMom]

As an ex-smoker, it doesn't matter to me about the smoking ban. I am, however, continually perplexed by those with very strong opinions about those that happen to smoke.

Like someone mentioned earlier, there are MANY nonsmoking gaming areas in the casino and I've often wondered why people take offense to the compromises that continue to be made to accommodate everyone. Personally I think it's one more way that some can try to control others.

I've read many responses about how people take offense to those that sit down and blow smoke in their face. I, personally, have seen the opposite. My cousin, who still smokes, has always sat at the end of a row, away from others, with space between. All too many times, a nonsmoker will sit down beside her (mind you, she was there first) and then begin to make comments about the smoke. Pretty juvenile behavior if you ask me.

If the ban takes place, we are only fooling ourselves if we think it won't begin to enter the casino gaming areas as well - eventually. Will it stop me from playing? No. But if I'm there with family members who smoke it will definitely slow down the amount of time we sit at machines.

Hmm....maybe it wouldn't be a bad thing afterall. Getting up and away from a machine might help me not to lose so much money.

But let's turn the tables a little....

Would you continue to play as much as you do now if they start charging for alcoholic beverages or ban all free beverages? How about if they start charging to park vehicles like in Atlantic City?

I'm willing to bet those will be the next changes after the smoking ones :)

[King of Kurtopia]

I think it's wrong to allow the mega casino's to continue smoking, when the little guy has to eliminate it. I'm a smoker, but the way the law was written is just plain wrong.

Kurt

[mowc1]

I am all for the smoking ban. My husband and I smoke cigars and only smoke where cigars are allowed. However,we do not smoke in our home. We visited Las Vegas over Christmas and New Year's and had a "smoking allowed" room. We noticed the smoke residue in our room-even though we did not smoke in there. I can imagine how hard it is on non-smokers to go to casinos, if I had as much trouble as I did as a cigar smoker. The air quality in Las Vegas flucuates with the wind and weather and anything that can be done to ease breathing should be greatly appreciated.

[just4fun]

I have been to casinos in Las Vagea and Ct. both as a smoker and nonsmoker and I believe that the BETTER casinos and resorts deal with the smoke properly with adequate ventilation. In Ct. there are seperate nonsmoking casinos(yes casinos within Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun casinos) where smoking is STRICTLY forbidden ,you can't even attempt to walk into the area with a cigarrete! I think that there several nonsmoking "areas" in Vegas casinos,and the newer and better managed places recognize the need for good ventilation. The older or "cheaper" joints are smokey to me and I usually do smoke. My wife,never a smoker,can't stand such places and I MUST respect her wishes cause I love her!!
I guess that I will make my annual pilgrimage to the land of sun and fun, in a nonsmoking room of course and only smoke outside if that's the ruling, hell I have to do that at home and it's OK! ...................Paul

[G-Alan]

Steve, leave it to a smoking debate to get 10 pages going in a hurry.
Non-smoker here, but...

I think it should be mandatory for everyone to smoke once they enter the casino. Have a casino rep at the door passing out 2-3 cigs for those that did not bring their own. You can't enter without a lit cigarette, yeah, that would do it. And they would enforce it and have people watching for people that aren't smoking at least one cigarette an hour. No smoking= no gambling! Go outside you nasty non-smokers!

What about that idea?

[cindyinnj]

I used to smoke and my hubby still smokes today. I don't really care if there is a smoking ban or not. Smoke doesn't bother me. But, nothing will keep me from coming to LV! However, I'm sure my hubby will be upset because he likes his cigars when he's gambling. He can always wait to light a cigarette outside, but his cigars are part of his total "Vegas Experience!" He'll just have to find somewhere he can smoke his cigars freely.

I have to say that it is good for the employees to not have to inhale all the second hand smoke while they work, but I'm sure most smokers will not be pleased.

[Steve]

First let me say that second hand smoke does cause me problems in breathing and personally feel it is detrimental to my health.

That said, this is the general feeling that both Eileen and I have about smoking in Las Vegas. First off the restaurants have had a smoking and non-smkoing area for many years. The showrooms have been non-smoking for quite a while...not so for the lounges. Other than the casino itself, these are the places where we spend the most time.

In the casino itself we go by this unwritten yet personal polite rule:
If there is a table game or slot you want to play and there is a smoker next to you, it is your choice to sit down. If a player is already seated at a slot or table game and is a non-somker, then if a person who is a smoker sits next to you they should ask you or the other people at the table if they mind if they smoke. I have found that most smokers are very polite and courteous with this rule even making it a point to hold the cigarette away from the table and blow the smoke upwards. I will also politely let the smoker know if I am being bothered by their smoking.

Even though a smoking ban would directly benefit myself, I really don't see the sense in it due the reasons mentioned above.

Steve

[ThoseEyes]

I'll admit that I haven't read EVERY post in this thread... but I did read enough of them that I felt that I had to follow up on what I posted the other day.

First... the government didn't impose anything on anybody. This was voted on, by the people of the state of Nevada, and it passed. That's the entire state, not Clark county, not Las Vegas... the state.

Second... most of you come here and probably stay in a big casino and don't venture far from it. There's very little impact within the casinos... about the only thing you might notice is that there will no longer be a smoking section in the restaurants. There is still smoking in the gaming areas, and THAT'S what's causing the furor here. The VP parlors are very upset because the way things are right now it looks as though they will be forced to chose between smoking and food. But these are video poker parlors, and chances are very few visitors ever go to one.

The thing that apparently has happened, that I don't agree with, is taking the smoking areas out of the airport. I don't see that as going well.

I really suggest that people actually read what had been on the ballot before jumping to conclusions, that was why I took the time to post it.

[CJN]

I would not be a happy person if they banned smoking in the casinos. I'm used to not smoking in restaurants because it's that way all over, but I can't see why they can't have the casinos make "non-smoking areas" like they do in the casinos in Illinois and Indiana. I can be in those areas for a while and not smoke, but not for my entire trip to Vegas! I'm sure I would still come to Vegas just as often, but if they make hotel rooms non-smoking as well, you won't see me there.

[dscs007]

I I'm sure I would still come to Vegas just as often, but if they make hotel rooms non-smoking as well, you won't see me there.

Personally I don't see the hotels baning smoking in their guest's rooms. There are too many smokers out there to make that happen. Even in California, I believe there are still smoking rooms in most hotels and motels.
But , all that being said, I don't believe that I would be going to Vegas as often as we do if there was a smoking ban in place in the casinos. I couldn't see cashing out every few minutes to take a hike outside for a smoke. Also I do believe the casinos would put up a fight if a ban was considered on the floor of the casino.

David

[susieq1047]

I am a non smoker...but only for the past 3 years...:D I was always a considerate smoker but I never sacrificed. If it was a packed table I would step across from the table for ciggy during a shuffle or whatever.
I used to LOVE the fact that Vegas was the "last hold out" where SMOKERS got the preferential treatment..:cool: you could smoke without shame. Even though I no longer smoke I would feel bad for the smokers who lost that feeling of knowing they could relax without the "Tater eye" look you get these days....:rolleyes:
Here in Texas Smokes just went up a 1.00 a pack...I would have to choose..Smoke OR Vegas these days...LOL

[STR8 FLUSH]

Complete smoking ban long overdue. Time to get civilized. Casinos in Ontario, Canada have been non-smoking since April 2006. The world moves on. No big fuss AND not one smoker has died from NOT BEING allowed to smoke. - parama

They have casinos in the frozen north? :confused: To try to compare LV and Canuck casinos is like comparing my income tax return to Donald Trumps.:eek: People do not travel from around the world just to visit a casino in mooseville as they do LV. If the smoking bothers you, stay in canada and breathe easy.:rolleyes:

Best regards,

James

[Sandyski]

Look, I don't smoke, but I am friends with many people who do. I go out with them. They smoke. I don't think smokers are intentionally out to get non-smokers, but you can't control smoke no matter how hard you try. And most smokers are nice and do try to blow their smoke up, or hold the cigarette aways. Depending on air flow it still seems to aim at people. I would no demand an all over smoking ban, but the idea of corralling the cigarettes is nice.

And you can't compare a smoking ban to a trans fat ban or drinking ban. You just can't. If I go to a restaurant with someone who orders a burger, I am not penalized for being with the person by having the burger smeared on me. The fumes of alcohol don't make me tipsy when I am sitting next to someone knocking them back at 9am. Smoking is different. I have honored the right to smoke for my whole life. This has ignored my right to inhale clean air. It is not possible to have both rights honored, so now it's my time to try this one out. I am not trying to say you are not giving something up (a measure of convenience) but regognize that I have also been forced to give up my convenience for smokers for while. There is no win all, everyone is happy end to this debate. So, I'm going to be selfish for a bit until some 'smoke is healty for your heart' study comes out. Villify me if you want, but I am being no more selfish than smokers have had a right to be for years. But just in restaurants and unregulated casinos.

The comparison is that the rights of people and business are in jeopardy. I have the facts of health risks to eating, drinking and smoking and it should be up to me to avoid things that aren't good for me.
It does affect everyone if people drink and drive. The traffic and exhaust from all the cars on the roadway also affects everyone's health. A total ban on cars within city limits would greatly reduce the health risk.
Obsity is on the rise so the government might decide to ban all junk foods to save us from ourselves.
The casinos had no trouble changing their marketing to attract a younger crowd because this is what they felt would be a good business decision. If they felt banning smoking would be a good business decision, they would do it but it should be up to them and not the government.
My point is this, the government is getting involved in decisions and that we and businesses should make.

[Sandyski]

Casinos Love Smokers, They Know That They Can't Quit, Smoking Or Gambling. The House Always Wins. If A Smoker Really Wanted To Quit, They Would Go To There Nearest Hospital And See What We Cancer Patients Have To Go Thru To Try And Live Another Year. I Would Like To See The Casinos Work More With The Non-smoker. It Would Be So Much More Fun To Get Home And Not Remember The Fun Trip By The Smell Of Our Cloths.

Just an observation, but I notice the most frequent complaint is the smell of the smoke and how their clothes and hair smell being around smoke. Is is really so much a health issue with most people? If it were proven that second hand smoke is no more harmful than car exhaust or not harmful at all, would it change the anti-smokers?
I'm wondering if there would be so much complaining about smoking if it were odorless?

[Steve]

When I first posted the Topic I asked that it not be turned into a debate but it looks like it's going in that direction which I thought it might.:eek:

I know this is a sensitive issue but please limit your responses to the original question.

If there is a comment you would like to politely debate with another poster, please use our email option by clicking on the persons forum name. ;)

Steve

[Sandyski]

[QUOTE=ThoseEyes;28671]I'll admit that I haven't read EVERY post in this thread... but I did read enough of them that I felt that I had to follow up on what I posted the other day.

First... the government didn't impose anything on anybody. This was voted on, by the people of the state of Nevada, and it passed. That's the entire state, not Clark county, not Las Vegas... the state.
The government put it on the ballot. I don't believe even the people have the right to dictate what a business does if it's legal.
You have the right not to go to places that permit smoking. It's very simple.
Now Connicut is trying to pass a law that will ban smoking in your car if your child is with you. Next, we might start to arrest or fine parents if their children are obese or if you drink at home with your children present. This is a slippery slope and eventually everyone will be affected by their loss of "rights".

[jolo777]

I have never been a smoker and I prefer not to be exposed to tobacco smoke, so I would rather not have people smoking when I am in the casinos.

California has banned smoking in all business establishments. The ban was implemented in stages and the bars were among the last establishments to be included in the ban. It was thought that smokers couldn't drink without having a cigarette, but many smokers have managed to adapt.

I don't believe that the California ban would have been implemented without the support of a large number of smokers, who want to cut back their smoking or quit altogether. If they must go outside to smoke, they will smoke less than they would if they could light up wherever they are.

In general, I believe in minimal government interference into what people are allowed to do and not do. I don't, in general, believe in one group (non-smokers) forcing its ways on another (smokers). However, when a significant number of smokers support the ban, I lend my support.

The government isn't telling you that you can't smoke; it is just telling you where you may not smoke while there are still places to smoke.

For Las Vegas, the bottom line will be the effect of a smoking ban on business. Many voters depend on the casino business for their employment and will vote against any measure that might result in a significant drop in tourism.

Each casino has the right to ban smoking altogether on its premises, or restrict smoking to certain areas. So far, I am unaware of any major casino that has done so. The business case for attracting nonsmokers at the expense of driving away smokers hasn't been strong enough. Part of the problem is that people travel in groups and, if one member of the group is a smoker, the whole group is likely to bypass the non-smoking establishment. Instead, the group will opt for a smoking establishment with fairly decent ventilation. The preferred approach would be to allow the businesses to choose to be either smoking or non-smoking, but that just does not work. Across the board is working in California.
California's non smoking laws do NOT apply to the Indian run casinos in California. The Harrah's casino in San Diego County has a non-smoking section, but allows smoking everywhere else but the restaurants.

[deemaxx95]

we smokers are constantly getting vilified for our habits! amarillo texas tried to establish a smoking ban on all area restaurants and public buildings. it was shot down by the voters because the 25-foot rule was outrageous! we'd have to literally smoke in the street to comply with the ban. at area schools it is against the law to smoke on school property. a person can go to jail for violating this law. if las vegas wants to prohibit smoking in certain areas then that is ok. however, a complete smoking ban would not work. casinos can provide smoking areas away from other patrons or they can provide sections where smokers can still play and enjoy themselves. would i still come to vegas if a smoking ban goes into effect? yes but i would still smoke in my car, on the sidewalk and in my motel room. it would hinder my enjoyment of going to vegas in many ways and i'm sure i'm not the only smoker who feels this way. there are ways to appease the non-smokers without penalizing us smokers.
We are both former smokers. Husband quit 17 yrs ago when he had by-pass surgery. I quit almost 10 yrs ago. I see both sides of the coin. I do know that it will hinder some from going. Especially those who come from other countries. When I was in Europe I couldn't believe how many people smoked. I don't care either way. I would like to go home and not have to was everything in my suitcase and not have to use vinegar or lemon juice on my hair. However for my lungs I know it would be healthier.

[Jacob36]

In Ohio, specifically Cleveland, they've helped build the Cavaliers new arena and Jacobs Field, home of the Cleveland Indians but they can't smoke in either of the buildings. Now that sucks.

:p

Well not every smoker in Cleveland paid for the two playpens; I think I might have paid a whole quarter for them and the Clowns stadium. The drinkers are the biggest payers for all three places; many smokers just went out of the county and bought their cigs. I my self recently quit smoking cigs, but I do enjoy a good cigar in Vegas.

There are rude smokers and just as rude non-smokers. When in Vegas, I look for other smokers to sit near, or look for a bank of machines with nobody around. But it never fails that someone comes and sits down next to me and “TELLS” me I have to put my cig out, my usual reply, find some place else to sit or fire up a cigar. However, on the very few times that someone actually sits down and “ASKS” if I would put it out, I put it out. See the difference.

As for the ban, right now it will not change my plans to visit.

[Mystek]

Personally, I don't care if people smoke or not as long as they keep the smoke away from me. I also appreciate it if the person asks before they light up.

M

[catgirl31]

There is not a total ban on smoking in Vegas. Just some parts of the casinos like the hallways, hotel lobbies, restaurants, bars where food is served & etc. I was just there over New Years. The less smoke there is, the better off we are in the long run. I came home from Vegas with dry, bloodshot eyes and a severe sore throat. I haven't been able to talk for five days. I simply cannot be around cigarette smoke without it bothering me anymore. While growing up my mom was a 2-pack a day chain smoker and I was even born prematurely because she smoked while pregnant with me. I have been susceptible to pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, upper respitory infection, & etc since being a small child. I lost my mom to lung cancer a year ago and she never made it to her 60th birthday. I've never been a smoker but her smoking affected my health greatly and now I have an empty whole in my heart because cigarettes took her life. Yes, it was her choice to smoke, but her choices negativey affected those around her. I was born in Vegas and it is a special place I like to visit 3-5 times per year but if smoking was banned even more than it currently is, I would visit Vegas more often. Having your hair & clothes reek of smoke on vacation is not fun. If the casinos would partition off some slot areas and designate some tables as non-smoking, that would be much appreciated by many of us non-smokers. Harrahs in Laughlin has a non-smoking casino section and it works great! Other Harrahs properties should follow their lead. Smokers will always smoke but I would prefer that they just have to do it in separate areas from non-smokers, including while gambling in casinos.

[Jringo]

i think they can come up with a gov sponsored solution to help Us smokers who want to quit yet lack the will to quit.......if it is truely an important issue as many want to make it seem like............ they have pills for everything else......

[brister21]

I play poker and the majority of poker rooms ban smoking . and i am fine with that.


If it OK to ban smoking in poker rooms, why not the rest of the casino - what is the difference??? I'll answer the question, there is none - it is simply another section of table games in the casino, and if the poker room can be non-smoking, and the majority of them are, then the rest of the gaming area can too!! The casino I work in bans smoking in the poker room, and let me tell you, it is always crowded!!!

[STR8 FLUSH]

If it OK to ban smoking in poker rooms, why not the rest of the casino - what is the difference??? I'll answer the question, there is none - it is simply another section of table games in the casino, and if the poker room can be non-smoking, and the majority of them are, then the rest of the gaming area can too!! The casino I work in bans smoking in the poker room, and let me tell you, it is always crowded!!!

Almost all poker rooms are next to a smoking area. The poker room does not have a special ventilation system. The main reason that the casinos ban smoking in the rooms is because the rooms ARE so crowded. And they are crowded because of the popularity of the game due wide TV exposure not because they are non-smoking. You have 10 players per table and 15-20 tables per room on average. The average time a poker player sits at a table is quadruple what a slot or BJ player sits at their game. When I sit to play I will go thru around 3 buttons and then go smoke a cig. It takes about 20 minutes before the blinds come back to me. NO BIG DEAL. Brister, it sounds like you have a place to play that caters to you, your choice. I have a place to play in LV, my choice. I also play in poker rooms in Oklahoma, Colorado and Louisianna. They are all non-smoking, but the smoking areas are no more than 10 steps away. So please do not use the poker rooms as an example. :rolleyes:

[brister21]

Almost all poker rooms are next to a smoking area. The poker room does not have a special ventilation system. The main reason that the casinos ban smoking in the rooms is because the rooms ARE so crowded. And they are crowded because of the popularity of the game due wide TV exposure not because they are non-smoking. You have 10 players per table and 15-20 tables per room on average. The average time a poker player sits at a table is quadruple what a slot or BJ player sits at their game. When I sit to play I will go thru around 3 buttons and then go smoke a cig. It takes about 20 minutes before the blinds come back to me. NO BIG DEAL. Brister, it sounds like you have a place to play that caters to you, your choice. I have a place to play in LV, my choice. I also play in poker rooms in Oklahoma, Colorado and Louisianna. They are all non-smoking, but the smoking areas are no more than 10 steps away. So please do not use the poker rooms as an example. :rolleyes:


A place to play that caters to me? I don't think so - if you read all of what I said, I work at the casino, not gamble there. The point I was making was that someone said they supported smoking I believe, but that having non-smoking poker rooms was OK. My point was what was the difference between the poker room and the rest of the casino...

If poker rooms stay busy even though they are non-smoking, is it not fair to assume that the rest of the casino would remain busy as well, rather than turn into ghost towns??

Not crowded in the rest of the casino? The craps (which can hold up to 16 players) , roulette and BJ tables where I work are ALWAYS crowded, especially Friday and Saturday nights - and yes, many of the players stay at the same tables for HOURS - several players that come in are there, usually at the same table, for longer than my 8 hour shift!

AS for non-smoking tables in the casino, a great idea in theory, and yes, you may not have the smoke right in your face, but there is no invisible barrier around the non-smoking table that keeps the smoke away.

[Ladybb9201]

Hubby and I are both smokers. Part of the reason we do visit Vegas is because we felt we could smoke almost anywhere !! Yes, this issue is enough for us to cut back on our trips to Vegas. Hope you all a great 2007 !!

[divefl]

I am a smoker. I go to Las Vegas at least once a year because I enjoy smoking, drinking and gambling all at once. However, if smoking is ban in casinos, I will still visit Vegas with the same frequency - 2 out of 3, ain't bad.
Please let me digress a little.... all this smoking ban in Vegas (who knew?) come about because of the thousands who move there in recent years. Instead of moving to a place and blend in, these domestic immigrants expect to enforce their "values" upon their new homeland". If I move anywhere, it's because I like what the place has to offer in the first place. Vegas should remain Vegas aka Sin City. Smoking ban now, what's next? No drinking because alcohol can kill? Then what? No sex?

Are you kidding me? Under that logic, in the first state that passed a ban...where were those "outsiders" migrating from? Someone could have done some great medical studies in a place that had 100% of their residents smoking until the "immigrants" moved in. You don't live in LV, how can you even think of making such an assertion?

[divefl]

The comparison is that the rights of people and business are in jeopardy. I have the facts of health risks to eating, drinking and smoking and it should be up to me to avoid things that aren't good for me.
It does affect everyone if people drink and drive. The traffic and exhaust from all the cars on the roadway also affects everyone's health. A total ban on cars within city limits would greatly reduce the health risk.
Obsity is on the rise so the government might decide to ban all junk foods to save us from ourselves.
The casinos had no trouble changing their marketing to attract a younger crowd because this is what they felt would be a good business decision. If they felt banning smoking would be a good business decision, they would do it but it should be up to them and not the government.
My point is this, the government is getting involved in decisions and that we and businesses should make.

Sandy, this was voted on by the people of Nevada. Driving while drunk is illegal , and many states have emmision standards that vehicles have to pass to operate...for the good of everybody. Your body is up to you and you do have rights (like drinking), but somethings that you do effect others and that is not your decision to make (like drinking and driving). See the difference.

[Bama]

The ban on smoking currently enacted will have a minimal impact on me.( I don't know if the Brewpub in Main Steet Station is included in the ban. Anyone have info on it?) However, I fear that the "health nazis" will keep pushing for a total ban. It will impact my travel plans if a total ban is enacted. Freedom, at least the illusion of it, is a major factor in my choice to visit LV. I relish being able to walk around with a drink in my hand and a cigar in my mouth while engaged in other "vices". Not being able to have a smoke while gambling will lessen my desire to make such a long trip with regularity.

[G-Alan]

Excuse me, anyone got a light?

[WSMN]

It seems to me that there is plenty of business for both smoking and nonsmoking. Why isn't anybody suggesting smoking and nonsmoking establishments? You should have much more business and many more jobs right? If the focus was on creating new establishments that were nonsmoking wouldn't everybody profit? There would be nobody's rights violated, no profit loss, no job loss, and everybody could get along. I'm sorry, am I missing something?

[STR8 FLUSH]

As you already know by my posts I am a smoker. But, there is something that makes me ponder and feel pity. It is something you all see everyday in Vegas. That old person with an oxygen tank on wheels. There they go, wheeling that thing around the casino AND smoking! You would think if you were in that position that the last thing on your mind would be lighting up. When I am at home I do not smoke. When we as a family are on vacation I do not smoke. But get me in a casino with a drink in my hand? I look like a dam choo-choo train. When I eat out I do not sit in smoking areas. Hmmm, a serious case of wanting the cake and eating it too. :p

James

[Lneck67]

I gave up smoking in 1986 one of the hardest things I ever done and I am a Vietnam Marine vet. I live in New York and I do feel for smokers. They won't let you smoke but they will sell them to you and tax the hell out of them. If they are that bad why are they allowed to be sold?

[hipster818]

I'm allergic to smoke, so I don't much sympathy for smokers complaints. At the same time Vegas should be open to everyone, i.e. smoking. I would not mind smokers if casinos had better ventilation so I don't have to go back to my room smelling like an ashtray. At least then there would be a happy medium.

[tlcrnicu]

If I might weigh in...
I live very near the most successful casinos in the world, The Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods. At Mohegan Sun there are multiple areas that are smoke free... They have gaming areas for slots and table games that are smoke free, their racebook is smoke free as are ALL their restaurants and retail stores. They also have designated hotel floors that are smoke free. The casino is very modern, with high, high ceilings, lots of O2 blowing around so even in the areas where folks are allowed to smoke, it is pretty much a non-issue. And they certainly are not lacking in customers.
We are also fairly close to Foxwoods, but because we like the SUN (love that girls basketball team!!!) and it is much closer to home, we spend our time there. I looked up on the Foxwoods website (which is the largest casino in the world and only makes a teeny, tiny bit less in gambling revenues than the Sun) and they too have a smoke free gambling area. However, it is not as informative about dining and shops etc on their site. In CT, ALL restaurants and bars are smoke free by law, but the law doesn't apply to the casinos as they are on Native American reservations.
I can sure tell you though, the non-smoking issue is a non-issue here. People come to gamble like ducks to a pond. The adage, "Build it and they will come" sure worked here.
Have a nice day, everyone!

[Pimp_N_M]

More than gambling, I love walking around with a cigar and a drink. Indoors outdoors whatever. Nevada is the last place I thought would enact this ban. They'll let you get V.D. in Pharump but not smoke afterward.