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Deadwood Casinos in South Dakota are suffering greatly when it comes to revenues. The casino has done quite well in the past however, since a no smoking ban passed in 2009 the casino has steadily declined. Senator Tom Nelson believes the smoking ban is to blame for players not coming out and enjoying casino games such as craps and roulette, so he is trying to get the ban lifted. A new legislative measure has been introduced which would exempt Deadwood from the smoking ban. Nelson commented: “As far as my legislative package goes, there are some things in there that need good discussion. I hope our legislators will see their way to help out our local economy.”
The proposal has been made public and it reads:
“Exceptions to the smoking ban in certain Deadwood gaming establishments and certain fraternal, service and veteran's organizations,” and is followed up by a summary statement that reads: “Any gaming operator in Deadwood as licensed in 42-7B, PLUS specific fraternal, service or veteran's organizations with an on sale liquor license shall be exempt from the smoking ban.”
Nelson is hoping that if the measure is approved then Deadwood will then begin to revive the economy which is suffering greatly. Anyone familiar with gambling, especially casino gambling, knows that gamblers like to smoke while they place their bets. Most want to be able to smoke at the tables while the roll the dice in a craps game or sit at the blackjack table.
A smoker does not want to have to stop while they are on a roll to be able to have a cigarette or move to a special location. Many casinos have adopted special gambling sections for smokers and non smokers. It will be interesting to see if the measure is passed and how Deadwood will handle this issue.
2011-12-24
