On January 23, the official opening of Rivers Casino Portsmouth in Virginia attracted a significant number of visitors. However, it was met with considerable criticism concerning its smoking regulations.
The first permanent casino in Virginia has recently announced that 80% of its establishment is now designated as non-smoking. The casino has installed new signs to clearly guide patrons towards the smoking and non-smoking areas. In order to inform their customers about this update, the casino has officially confirmed the change.
As of now, Rivers Casino Portsmouth has implemented changes to our smoking regulations. A significant alteration involves designating approximately half of the gaming floor as non-smoking, which includes both slots and table games. This new policy is effective immediately.
In addition to cigarettes, cigars and vaping are also strictly prohibited. Rivers Casino Portsmouth has also reiterated its policy on the presence of marijuana near the slots and poker tables.
Please be reminded that it is illegal to smoke marijuana in public within the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The casino has expanded its non-smoking areas to include:
- every restaurant,
- the sportsbook
- the poker room
- and TopGolf, among others.
Rivers Casino Portsmouth employees asked to join anti-smoking group
The casino took into account not only the customers but also other concerns while considering its policy changes.
An open letter was sent by CEASE (Casino Employees Against Smoking’s Effect) to the employees of Rivers Casino Portsmouth.
The letter states, “Our aim is to assist you in avoiding the silent suffering you endure each day at work. We understand the apprehension of speaking up, which is precisely why becoming a part of our nationwide group of thousands of casino employees is the initial step towards finding solace in collective support.”
If necessary, the group aims to provide the casino employees with an opportunity to express their concerns and objections regarding smoking regulations by granting them a voice and a platform.
According to the letter, we are currently the sole group of workers in society who face the difficult decision of prioritizing either our health or our livelihood.
Why the casino drew negative feedback
Ideally, a casino that offers separate smoking and nonsmoking sections would please all patrons in an ideal setting. However, Rivers Casino Portsmouth faces challenges in effectively isolating these sections since they lack physical barriers between them.
Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to mitigating the impact of secondhand smoke. The group drew a comparison between a smoking section and a “peeing section in a pool,” highlighting the absurdity and negative consequences of such a setup. CEO Cynthia Hallett emphasized this point in her statement.
The efforts made to respond to the public’s strong outcry during the opening week of Rivers Casino Portsmouth fall short. The ultimate solution lies in relocating indoor smoking to an outdoor area.
She continued:
If no action is taken, both casino workers and guests will remain exposed to hazardous secondhand smoke. Rivers holds the authority to promptly make this decision and attract customers who desire to fully experience the offerings of their casino.
In an interview with Wavy.com, Pete Naccarelli, co-founder of CEASE, reiterated Hallett’s remarks.
He stated that 87% of Americans refrain from smoking, while 13% engage in it. He questioned why the casinos prioritize the 13% who smoke, putting the lives of the majority at risk.
Rivers Casino Facebook reviews draw plenty of opposition to smoking
A brief glance at the Facebook page of Rivers Casino Portsmouth makes it clear that numerous casino visitors dislike the presence of smoke.
One comment expressed, “I simply cannot fathom a weekend day or night; it will undoubtedly give me the sensation of having smoked an entire pack of cigarettes.”
The scent of smoke was incredibly overpowering, particularly the distinct aroma of marijuana.
The dreadful smoke is unbearable. The ventilation system requires improvement or the establishment should designate more non-smoking areas. I have no plans to return.
“I will not return. I had to use my jacket to cover my mouth.”
As of February 2nd, the casino’s Facebook page received a total of 46 reviews with an average rating of 2.6 stars out of five.
It is important to mention that patrons also provided positive feedback regarding their overall experience. Certain Facebook reviews defended the casino’s smell, stating that it was not unusual for a casino.
One user commented, “We have been to several casinos, and this one was no worse than the others.”
Virginia’s Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock had a similar experience
Guests expressed concerns about the smoke at Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock, similar to the feedback received at Rivers Casino Portsmouth. To address this issue, the Bristol casino also incorporated separate areas for non-smoking patrons.
The casino, in response, decided to enhance its HVAC system in order to improve ventilation.
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