Casino smoking ban bill heads to McKee’s desk

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Legislation that would prohibit smoking in casinos now heads to Governor Dan McKee’s desk.

Rhode Island’s Bally’s Casinos had been exempt from regulations requiring smoke-free workplaces, but workers at Twin River rallied multiple times, saying that allowing smoking within the casino worsened their health.

The bill does allow for “smoking lounges” in the casinos.

If it’s signed into law, it will take effect in 2027.