A newly released poll, slated to be revealed at the much-anticipated Global Gaming Expo (G2E) this October, unveils that a large majority of visitors—including some smokers—are yearning for a smoke-free gaming environment.
Survey Reveals 89% of Affluent Casino Gamblers Favor Smoke-Free Venues
Conducted between December 2023 and January 2024, this survey gathered opinions from casino-goers, tribal members, and casino workers. A notable participant pool included followers of notable slot influencer Brian Christopher, who is a staunch advocate for smoke-free casinos. Teaming up with the American Nonsmokers’ Rights Foundation (ANR), Christopher helped orchestrate this comprehensive poll.
The study’s results are striking, highlighting that an impressive 89% of casino patrons earning over $150,000 annually prefer not to smoke. Furthermore, 34% disclosed that health concerns related to secondhand smoke prevent them from enjoying casino facilities. These findings challenge the longstanding notion that smoke-free policies adversely impact casino revenue figures.
Brian Christopher, a luminary in the casino community boasting nearly 700,000 devoted YouTube subscribers, underscores that many smokers also appreciate smoke-free gambling zones. He notes, according to CDC Gaming, that while some establishments may initially experience a dip in revenue following the adoption of smoke-free regulations, this trend reverses as players prioritize their gaming experience over smoking privileges.
Panel Discussion on Non-Smoking Casino Initiatives at G2E
The survey’s revelations will be a focal point during a dedicated G2E panel titled “Insights from Non-Smoking Casino Initiatives.” Moderated by Christopher, the panel will also feature ANR President Cynthia Hallett, Tashina Williams from Potawatomi Casino Hotel Milwaukee, and Bryan Hayes of Foxwoods Resort Casino. Notably, Potawatomi and Foxwoods have already implemented smoke-free policies, with Foxwoods maintaining a smoke-free stance for three years, while Potawatomi allows smoking solely in a small gaming lounge on its second floor.
Brian Christopher Champions Smoke-Free Gambling Nationwide
Currently, 20 states enforce smoke-free policies within casinos and other public venues. Other states, such as New Jersey, permit smoking on casino floors while restricting it in other public spaces. Post-pandemic, a handful of tribal and commercial casinos have independently adopted smoke-free regulations, marking a significant shift in industry mindset.
Christopher fervently supports the movement towards smoke-free gambling. He advocates for making gambling an enjoyable and healthy activity by eliminating smoking, urging casino operators to emphasize creating a fun atmosphere over catering to smoking preferences. Aligning with the sentiments of his followers, Christopher envisions a future where more and more casinos embrace smoke-free policies due to growing customer demand and recognized health benefits.
He is confident that as legislative moves to ban smoking in gaming areas gain traction in states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania, smoke-free gaming venues will not just become a trend but the gold standard across the casino industry.
