Kanawha-Charleston Board of Health Declines Casino’s Indoor Smoking Area Proposal: What It Means for Local Health and Regulations

Following a 30-day public comment period, the Kanawha-Charleston Board of Health decided against an amendment that would have allowed Mardi Gras Casino and Resort to create a designated indoor smoking area. This proposal aimed to attract more visitors by offering a separate space for cigarette smoking, which supporters argued could keep customers from visiting other casinos with existing smoking areas.

Board member Danita Nellhaus, a healthcare professional, expressed her concerns. “The health implications are just too significant,” she said. She emphasized that no matter the potential benefits, protecting public health had to come first.

Dr. Dara Aliff-Lao, another board member, highlighted the economic considerations tied to the proposal. While she acknowledged the potential financial boost for the casino, she believed the health risks were not worth the trade-off. “Our priority is the safety of patrons and employees,” Aliff-Lao added, remarking that the board ultimately prioritizes health over profit.

The board received strong public support for maintaining the existing Clean Air Act, further influencing their decision. Both Nellhaus and Aliff-Lao stated that even if the public opinion had swayed, their stance was firm, rooted in a commitment to community health.

In light of health data, many studies link indoor smoking to increased risks for both smokers and non-smokers. According to the American Lung Association, exposure to secondhand smoke leads to more than 41,000 deaths annually in non-smoking adults and approximately 400 infant deaths from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

While casinos often push for more lenient smoking regulations for potential profits, recent trends show a growing number of patrons prefer smoke-free environments. A 2022 survey by the National Restaurant Association found that 83% of customers favor smoke-free dining.

The board’s decision reflects a broader movement towards healthier public spaces, underscoring the importance of health over economic gain in community planning.



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