Rhode Island casino workers intensify push for indoor smoking ban
On 20 May 2025, approximately 150 casino workers rallied at the Rhode Island State House, urging lawmakers to pass legislation that would eliminate the exemption allowing indoor smoking at the state’s two casinos, Bally’s Twin River in Lincoln and Bally’s Tiverton. The demonstration marked the fourth consecutive year that employees have advocated for this change, stressing the health risks associated with second-hand smoke exposure.
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Legislative efforts and support
Representative Teresa Tanzi (D-South Kingstown) has reintroduced a bill aiming to close the loophole in the 2005 Public Health and Workplace Safety Act, which currently permits smoking in casinos. This year, the bill has garnered increased support, including co-sponsorship from House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi.
In the Senate, companion legislation sponsored by Senator V. Susan Sosnowski (D-South Kingstown) awaits consideration by the Senate Committee on Labor and Gaming, chaired by Senate Majority Leader Frank Ciccone III (D-Providence). Ciccone has expressed concerns about potential revenue losses if a full smoking ban is implemented and is exploring a compromise to expand non-smoking areas within the casinos.
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Worker testimonies highlight health concerns
Casino employees shared personal accounts of health issues they attribute to prolonged exposure to second-hand smoke. Philip Farinelli, a floor supervisor at Bally’s Twin River Lincoln, told The Boston Globe that he has battled stage 3 neck and head cancer, stage 1 lung cancer, and suffered a heart attack, stating, “I’m still here fighting today so I can work in a healthy environment.”
Vanessa Baker, an iGaming supervisor at Bally’s Lincoln, described the resurgence of her asthma symptoms following the reinstatement of indoor smoking in March 2022, after a temporary ban during the COVID-19 pandemic. As reported by the Rhode Island Current, it took nine months to resume her medication regimen and required a six-month leave of absence to recover.
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Public opinion and industry response
A February poll commissioned by the Rhode Island AFL-CIO indicated that nearly 70 percent of respondents support a smoking ban in the state’s casinos. Despite this, Bally’s Corporation maintains that allowing smoking is essential for attracting out-of-state patrons, especially since neighbouring Massachusetts and most Connecticut casinos are smoke-free. Craig Sculos, Bally’s Senior Vice President of Rhode Island Regulatory Relations, argued that a smoking ban could lead to a 10 percent revenue decline and approximately 126 job losses.
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Next steps
While the House bill has yet to reach the floor, its growing support suggests momentum toward change. The Senate’s stance remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions about potential compromises. Casino workers and their advocates continue to press for comprehensive legislation to ensure a smoke-free working environment.
