Casino Smoking Ban Bills Emerge in Kansas, Missouri

Young man sitting in a casino and gambling on a slot machine

Article by : Erik Gibbs Dec 5, 2024

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Legislation to ban smoking in state-owned casinos is gaining traction in Kansas and Missouri. Different bills are expected to be introduced during the upcoming 2025 legislative session. 

The movement is being spearheaded by C.E.A.S.E. (Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects), a group advocating for smoke-free workplaces. The organization argues that most residents in both states do not smoke and highlights the support of groups such as the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association, and Americans for Non-Smokers’ Rights.

The proposed smoking ban would apply only to state-owned casinos, leaving privately owned establishments, such as those operated by Native American tribes, unaffected. While the effort has gathered significant backing, opinions remain divided among casino patrons and workers. 

Some patrons see casinos as one of the few adult-only spaces where smoking is still allowed. Melissa Dancer, a regular visitor to downtown Kansas City’s casinos, expressed concerns that banning smoking might reduce their appeal, noting that many customers value the ability to smoke in these venues.

Other patrons, like Mattie Coleman, view the potential ban as beneficial for both health and comfort, citing the dangers of secondhand smoke. Still, some, like Clifton Milton, believe the decision should be left to individual choice and market preferences rather than legislative action.

Casino operators, including Penn Entertainment, which runs Hollywood Casino in Kansas City, Kansas, and the Argosy Casino in Riverside, Missouri, have emphasized their efforts to accommodate both smoking and non-smoking customers. 

Jeff Morris, the company’s VP of Public Affairs & Government Relations, pointed to advanced ventilation systems, high ceilings, and designated smoking and non-smoking areas as solutions. He believes the marketplace should ultimately decide the issue, with customers choosing venues that best meet their preferences.

C.E.A.S.E. founder Joe Hafley remains steadfast in pushing for the bans, emphasizing the health risks faced by casino employees exposed to smoke during their shifts. Hafley plans to advocate for the legislation in person, attending events at the Kansas Statehouse on January 21 and the Missouri Statehouse on February 3. He hopes to convince lawmakers on health committees to support the bills and advance them in the legislative process.