Norco state rep ‘disappointed’ with fate of smoking bill

Gary Smith says some supporters flip-flopped during bill’s vote

Smoking in bars, truck stops and casinos will continue to be a Louisiana tradition after legislation introduced by state Rep. Gary Smith prohibiting the act was overwhelmingly struck down by the house.

Smith said he was disappointed in the 29-71 vote against his bill, especially since he believes some members who supported it switched when they saw the bill was not receiving enough votes to pass.

“I knew it would be a long shot to pass a smoke free act this year, but this is such an important issue for the health of our citizens – and to level the playing field for all businesses in the service/hospitality industry – that we needed to have the discussion,” Smith said.

Smith believes that the House voted against the anti-smoking legislation because of the perceived economic effect it would have on local businesses. However, he points to studies that show the opposite to be true.

“The vast majority of reputable studies show no negative economic effect, and in most cases, a positive effect,” he said. “Unfortunately, the casino industry put into peoples’ minds the negative economic effect that this bill may have on the revenues of state and local governments if passed.”

But Smith says that casinos have adapted in the past to deal with such legislation.

“Harrah’s operates 10 non-smoking casinos and is applying for a license to operate four more in a non-smoking jurisdiction. Penn National Gaming operates at least two gaming facilities in non-smoking areas,” he said.

Smith also cites the fact that countries such as France, Ireland and the United Kingdom have banned smoking in casinos nationwide.

“Approximately 77 percent of Louisiana citizens do not smoke, according to a survey, and approximately 80 percent of the gamblers surveyed prefer a smoke-free facility,” Smith said. “It is only a matter of time until legislation like this is passed.”

Currently, 29 nations and 28 states in the United States have passed no smoking laws for bars and restaurants. Sixteen states have outlawed smoking in bars, restaurants and gaming facilities.