Rhode Island Casino Workers Demand Smoke-Free Environment at State House Rally
At a recent rally at the Rhode Island State House, Philip Farinelli, a floor supervisor at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino, passionately advocated for a ban on smoking in state casinos, citing personal health struggles including lung cancer and a heart attack. Farinelli highlighted the disparity between legislators enjoying smoke-free workplaces and his daily exposure to harmful second-hand smoke, noting its debilitating effects on casino workers.
The rally, organized by advocates who have long pushed for a smoking ban, seeks to capitalize on the recent death of former Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio, who previously stood against such legislation. Attendees are hopeful the General Assembly will finally pass a smoking ban at both Bally’s Twin River Lincoln and Tiverton casinos.
However, new Senate Majority Leader Frank A. Ciccone III expressed concerns about potential revenue losses, estimating that Bally’s could face a $15 million to $30 million hit if the smoking exemption is lifted. He has been in discussions with Bally’s and union officials to seek a compromise.
Countering Ciccone’s concerns, rally speakers emphasized that smoke-free establishments can be more profitable, citing successful examples from casinos in Pennsylvania and Las Vegas. Organizer Teresa A. Tanzi condemned the longstanding exclusion of casinos from the 2005 indoor smoking ban as a “grave injustice” to workers.
Vanessa Baker, leader of Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE), reinforced the call for a complete smoking ban, asserting that any compromise would be unacceptable. As the rally concluded, workers displayed signs declaring "100% smoke-free" and emphasizing the need for a healthier work environment for all casino staff.
The fight for a smoke-free Rhode Island casino landscape continues as advocates urge lawmakers to listen to the voices of those most affected.
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