Mixed reactions on US casino smoking ban
2nd January, 2008
Reaction to the new smoking ban in casinos in Colorado have been mixed as the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve saw hundreds of players stub out their last cigarette.
Gamblers were forced to brave the chilly winter air once the clock struck 12 if they wanted to light up a cigarette or cigar.
The new law follows the ban on smoking in all bars, clubs and restaurants – but casino owners had the deadline of when the new rules would be put into place extended until New Year's Eve.
Speaking to the Rocky Mountain News, gamblers at the Fortune Valley Casino had mixed reactions on the issue with some delighted by the decision and others less convinced.
Kay Persichatte Persichatte, 53, told the newspaper: "I love it. If a smoker used to come and sit by me, I would move."
But Andrea Lance, 48, said: "I personally think we should band together and say, 'No drinking in the casinos,' and see how that goes down.
"I consider myself a conscientious smoker. I don't blow smoke on people. I'm not flicking ashes on them."
