Kansas Casinos Could Soon Go Smoke-Free as Legislative Push Gains Momentum
The future of smoking inside Kansas-owned casinos hangs in the balance as the state’s upcoming legislative session approaches. Several proposed bills aim to implement a complete smoking ban across the four state-operated gaming properties. This move, if successful, would dramatically alter the casino landscape, affecting venues like the Kansas Star Casino in Sumner County, Boot Hill Casino and Resort in Dodge City, Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, and the Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel in Pittsburg.
Protecting Workers and Patrons: The Driving Force Behind the Ban
The push for a smoke-free casino environment stems from a desire to protect both patrons and employees from secondhand smoke exposure. Lawmakers are actively considering legislation that would explicitly prohibit smoking within these state-owned establishments. Notably, this proposed ban would only apply to casinos under state ownership. Casinos operated by Native American tribes would not be subject to the same restrictions.
Smokers at Casinos: A Tale of Two Sides
While momentum builds for a statewide ban, reactions from casino patrons remain mixed. Security guard Joe Hafley, who works at the Hollywood Casino and is also the founder of CEASE Kansas, a staunch advocate for the ban, highlights the palpable impact secondhand smoke has on casino employees.
“They get it on their clothes and bring it home to their families and their children and wives and spouses,” Hafley said, describing the insidious nature of secondhand smoke. “You don’t want them to hug you or anything like that. It’d be nice to not have to take a shower after a day of work.”
Hafley, who is optimistic about the bill’s chances of passing this time around, points to the overwhelming statistic that “Eighty-five percent of Kansans and Missourians do not smoke. We have lots and lots of support.”
While Hafley and other advocates champion the potential health benefits of a smoke-free environment, some casino patrons express concerns about potential limitations on personal choice and the fear that a ban could negatively impact the gaming experience.
A Smoke-Free Future for Kansas Casinos?
As the legislative session draws near, the debate surrounding smoking in Kansas casinos is expected to intensify. Advocates like Hafley are hopeful that lawmakers will recognize the importance of creating healthier and more inclusive environments for both employees and patrons. The outcome of this legislative push will have significant implications for the future of Kansas casinos, shaping not only the physical spaces but also the overall experience for those who visit.
* What are the main arguments presented in favor of banning smoking in Kansas-owned casinos?
## Kansas Casinos: Smoke-Free Future on the Horizon?
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show. Tonight, we’re talking about the possibility of Kansas-owned casinos transitioning to smoke-free environments. Joining us is State Representative John Smith, a strong advocate for the proposed smoking ban. Representative Smith, thanks for being with us.
**Representative Smith:** Thanks for having me.
**Interviewer:** Let’s get right to it. What’s driving this push for smoke-free casinos in Kansas?
**Representative Smith:** Primarily, it’s about the health and safety of both casino workers and patrons. We know secondhand smoke is a serious health hazard, and it’s simply not fair to expose individuals to that risk when they are just trying to work or enjoy a night out. [[1](https://www.kwch.com/2024/12/05/future-smoking-kansas-owned-casinos-jeopardy/)]
**Interviewer:** The proposed ban only targets state-owned casinos, not those operated by Native American Tribes. Can you explain that decision?
**Representative Smith:** Absolutely. Tribal sovereignty is a complex issue, and we respect the rights of Native American tribes to govern their own lands. This legislation focuses on state-owned properties within our jurisdiction.
**Interviewer:** There’s been some pushback from casino patrons who enjoy smoking while gambling. What’s your message to them?
**Representative Smith:** We understand that this is a change for some, but ultimately, we believe a smoke-free environment benefits everyone. It creates a healthier atmosphere, attracts a wider range of customers, and reduces the risk of health problems for employees.
**Interviewer:** Representative Smith, thank you for sharing your insights on this important issue.
**Representative Smith:** It was my pleasure.
