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The highly-anticipated Prime Network Jackpot originally launched by the SOFTSWISS Jackpot Aggregator last October was claimed on February 7

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The lucky winner of SOFTSWISS’ Prime Network Jackpot has scooped up a prize of €244,742.34 ($263.717,21) in a game designed by BGaming.

Casino operators part of the Prime Network Jackpot campaign collectively set up shared prize pools driven by players. This means the winnings are paid from these shared prize pools and not by individual operators. 

As a result, operators can boost player loyalty and engagement by showcasing more potentially lucrative rewards. At the same time, they can streamline their costs more effectively.

€1 Minimum Bet with Zero Added Fees

During the campaign that took place between October 2023 and February 2024, players were able to join the online jackpot with an advantageous minimal bet set at €1, with no extra fees.

In total, they wagered around €1 billion in bets in the mouth-watering prize pool. The very first draw of the Prime Network Jackpot was hosted by Fastpay Casino and helped a lucky gamer strike the big prize announced by SOFTSWISS.

Fastpay Casino representatives called it “an honor and a stroke of fortune” to be able to host the inaugural draw of SOFTSWISS’ Prime Network Jackpot campaign, adding their casino was “privileged to be the first to celebrate a winner in this exciting campaign.”

The representative also mentioned the symbolism behind the win that occurred in Fastpay Bonanza, a game that has been exclusively created for them by BGaming.

Typically, regular, non-network progressive jackpot winnings do go over the €30,000-€50,000 mark.

“Gratifying” to See Players Embrace Fresh Initiatives

BGaming’s chief executive officer, Marina Ostrovtsova, also took the opportunity to comment on the news, calling it “gratifying to see players enthusiastically embracing fresh industry initiatives,” referring to the SOFTSWISS Prime Network Jackpot campaign in particular. 

Ostrovtsova also expressed their joy to mark the pioneer winner in BGaming’s game that was specifically made for Fastpay Casino while thanking all involved partners and eagerly anticipating more similar campaigns from SOFTSWISS.

SOFTSWISS Preparing New Campaign

As a result of the success of the first draw, the SOFTSWISS Jackpot Aggregator announced it was getting ready to launch a new Prime Network Jackpot campaign.

SOFTSWISS Jackpot Aggregator’s head, Aliaksei Douhin, stated they were “thrilled” that the highly-anticipated win occurred during the ICE event, which is the perfect time to reunite community members and let them share their insights.

Douhin added that, following the success of their initial online campaign featuring a starting prize pool of €100,000, they would “immediately” launch a brand new campaign with a prize pool that will start at €300,000.

The Prime Network Jackpot campaign helped participating operators grow their key performance indicators compared to periods when non-network jackpot campaigns were running. Namely, they recorded a 7.76% rise in turnover, a 2.43% increase in total bets, and a 3.87% growth in deposits.

These numbers prove the positive impact of the Prime Jackpot campaign on participating casinos, turning into a strategic tool that allows them to boost their business metrics and player engagement.

SOFTSWISS was recently named Platform Provider of the Year at the Global Gaming Awards EMEA, further strengthening its leading position in the region.

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This adjustment mirrors a trend among Las Vegas resort companies, with other properties also recently raising their fees

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In a move that will affect the wallets of travelers, Wynn Resorts has announced an increase in resort fees for its Las Vegas properties.

Wynn Resorts Raises Las Vegas Resort Fees from $45 to $50

Effective January 24, 2024, the daily resort fee has been raised to $50 plus tax for reservations made on or after that date, reported The Las Vegas Review-Journal. Prior bookings, however, will retain the previous rate of $45 plus tax per day.

Resort fees, which have become a common practice among Las Vegas establishments, encompass a range of services and amenities intended to enhance guests’ experiences. At Wynn Resorts, these fees entitle guests to various perks including in-room Wi-Fi, access to fitness centers and pools, spa reservations, golf tee times, and access to digital newsstands. Additionally, guests can enjoy the convenience of Alexa in-room entertainment services and room controls.

The decision to raise resort fees comes amidst a backdrop of fluctuating hotel rates in Las Vegas. In fact, on the eve of Super Bowl Sunday, hotel room rates in the city plummeted by an estimated 35%, signaling potential shifts in the hospitality industry.

While the fee increase may pose a concern for budget-conscious travelers, Wynn Resorts aims to maintain the quality and range of amenities offered to its guests. The company’s commitment to providing exceptional service remains steadfast, even as economic factors influence pricing structures.

As visitors plan their stays in Las Vegas, they may need to factor in these adjusted resort fees when budgeting for their trips.

MGM Resorts Takes the Lead as Las Vegas Resort Fees Rise

In January, MGM Resorts also upped resort fees at its Las Vegas properties, with rates hitting $50 at Bellagio, Aria, Vdara, MGM Grand, and Cosmopolitan. The increases, effective since January 16, 2024, amount to $2-3 per day across the board.

Resort fees, often seen as hidden charges, serve to maintain lower official room rates for better online rankings and reduced commissions. Amidst post-pandemic adjustments and increased competition, Las Vegas resorts are strategizing to balance supply and demand.

At the beginning of February, President Joe Biden visited Las Vegas, vowing to eliminate hidden junk fees, including resort fees, that inflate accommodation costs for US citizens. These fees often surprise travelers, affecting vacation budgets.

Biden expressed his intent to combat such practices on social media, stressing their impact on hardworking families. Although specifics on eradication methods remain undisclosed, Biden’s commitment to lower costs echoes previous promises. He previously targeted deceptive pricing and pledged to crackdown on junk fees.

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City commissioners recently voted in favor of transferring over 130 acres of vacant land to the Indigenous community, sparking discussions of constructing a casino complex in the area

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Raton, New Mexico, a small town nestled 100 miles northeast of Taos, is looking to revitalize its economy through a unique partnership with the Pueblo of Picuris.

Raton Eyes Economic Boost with Proposed Casino Partnership with Pueblo of Picuris

The Pueblo of Picuris, one of the state’s smallest Indigenous communities with a population of approximately 300, has caught the attention of Raton officials. Negotiations between the city and the pueblo regarding the potential gaming facility have been ongoing for nearly three years, according to Raton Mayor Neil Segotta, reported the Colorado Public Radio.

The proposed development aims to take advantage of New Mexico’s tribal/state compact, which permits casino-style gaming exclusively on tribal lands. The transfer of the land to the Pueblo of Picuris could pave the way for the construction and operation of the casino complex, offering a potential economic lifeline to Raton.

Former Raton city manager Scott Berry emphasized the project’s potential as a catalyst for economic growth during a recent city commission meeting. He expressed optimism about the positive impact the casino could have on tourism and job creation in the region.

Berry stated that the proposal in front of the commissioners was very much designed as a catalyst for economic development in Raton. He added that it was the most powerful catalyst he knew of out there.

City Manager Reveals Ambitious Plans for Casino Development

Current city manager Richard Mestas echoed Berry’s sentiments, highlighting the expected benefits of the project. Mestas revealed plans for the development to include not only a casino but also the potential for additional amenities such as a hotel or restaurant. He also emphasized the city’s commitment to providing utilities to support the project.

Despite the commission’s approval of the resolution, Mayor Pro-tem Lori Chatterley clarified that it does not constitute a binding agreement. Chatterley emphasized that the resolution serves as a statement of intent to proceed with discussions and does not commit the city to the land transfer at this stage.

Chatterley affirmed that it represented a declaration of intent to proceed. She clarified that it was not a legally binding contract nor did it entail the transfer of property; rather, it served as a gesture of goodwill for future progress.

As plans move forward, a meeting between Pueblo of Picuris leaders and city officials is scheduled for later this month to further explore the potential partnership and its implications for both parties.

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The statistics, disclosed by the Nevada Gaming Control Board, showcased a notable rise from the previous year\’s handle, indicating a surge of 21.2%

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In a historic first for Las Vegas, the city played host to Super Bowl LVIII, breaking records in betting handle and marking an unprecedented chapter in sports gambling history.

Nevada Sportsbooks Break Records with $185.6 Million in Bets

Nevada sportsbooks witnessed a staggering $185.6 million in wagers, a feat that shattered previous records and underscored the immense popularity of sports betting in the region. The figures, released by the Nevada Gaming Control Board, revealed a significant increase from last year’s handle, marking a 21.2% surge.

The Kansas City Chiefs emerged victorious in a thrilling showdown against the San Francisco 49ers, clinching their second consecutive Super Bowl title and third in five years with a 25-22 overtime victory. Despite being 2-point underdogs, the Chiefs defied the odds, sending shockwaves through the sports betting world.

Michael Lawton, senior economic analyst at the Nevada Gaming Control Board, explained that several factors drove the record-breaking handle, including the matchup with a West Coast team from the No. 2 feeder market for Las Vegas, coupled with the defending champions, and the game being played in Las Vegas itself.

Nevada Faces Low Hold Percentage Amid Super Bowl Craze

However, the triumph for bettors spelled trouble for sportsbooks, with Nevada’s 182 sportsbooks collectively winning $6.8 million, marking a relatively low hold percentage of 3.7%. The public’s overwhelming support for the Chiefs, coupled with successful bets on the overtime prop, dealt a blow to the sportsbooks.

Chuck Esposito, sportsbook director at Red Rock Resort, noted the palpable excitement surrounding the event and expressed his belief that the record would be broken, citing the influx of early wagers and the occurrence of six-figure bets two weeks prior.

Las Vegas emerged as the epicenter of Super Bowl betting fervor, with five of the eight $1 million bets nationwide placed in the city. Stakeholders, including BetMGM and Circa Sports, played a pivotal role in orchestrating the monumental event, earning accolades from Kirk Hendrick, chairman of the Nevada Gaming Control Board, for their contributions.

One of the most notable bets on the Super Bowl showdown came from Canadian rapper Drake. Despite concerns fueled by the infamous “Drake curse,” the rapper’s $1.15 million bet on the Kansas City Chiefs paid off as they defeated the San Francisco 49ers in the Super Bowl, breaking the curse. This victory marks the second year in a row that Drake has successfully backed the Chiefs, earning him approximately $2.34 million according to his bet slip.

As the dust settles on Super Bowl LVIII, Las Vegas basks in the glow of a historic milestone, solidifying its status as the ultimate destination for sports betting enthusiasts worldwide.

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According to the proposed legislation, the Wyoming Gaming Commission would be responsible for regulating the online casino sector, issuing licenses to a maximum of five operators

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Wyoming legislators are embarking on a new frontier of gambling as they introduce House Bill 120, which seeks to legalize and regulate online casino gaming in the state.

Wyoming Lawmakers Lead Charge in Online Casino Licensing

The bill, spearheaded by Representatives Jon Conrad, Robert Davis, Sandy Newsome, and Tom Walters, marks a significant step following the legalization of sports betting in 2021.

Under the proposed legislation, the Wyoming Gaming Commission would oversee the online casino industry, granting licenses to up to five operators. These licenses come with a hefty price tag, requiring an initial fee of $100,000, along with a renewal fee of $50,000 every five years. Additionally, vendors looking to participate would need to pay an initial fee of $10,000, with a $5,000 renewal fee every five years.

A notable aspect of the bill is the taxation structure, with operators facing a 10% tax rate on their revenues. Furthermore, the legislation sets aside $300,000 annually for problem gambling programs, reflecting a commitment to addressing potential social issues associated with expanded gambling activities.

One intriguing provision of House Bill 120 is the allowance for interstate agreements, enabling licensed operators in Wyoming to form partnerships with those in other states. This move is seen as a strategic response to Wyoming’s relatively small population, potentially fostering larger player pools and enhancing the industry’s viability.

Wyoming, Illinois, Maryland, and Hawaii Forge Paths in Online Gambling Legislation

While Wyoming moves forward with its online casino ambitions, it is part of a broader trend across the United States. States like Illinois, Maryland, and Hawaii are also contemplating or actively pursuing similar initiatives to regulate online gambling within their borders.

In Illinois, lawmakers are considering House Bill 2239, which proposes a licensing framework for online gaming operators. Maryland is evaluating the possibility of legalization through a public referendum, with Sen. Ron Watson championing the cause. Meanwhile, Hawaii is exploring comprehensive gambling reform with Senate Bill 3376, signaling a potential shift in its traditionally anti-gambling stance.

In other news, Wyoming’s online gambling giants, including FanDuel and DraftKings, are pivoting to challenge the legality of fantasy sports leagues, mirroring their past efforts to legalize sports betting. The Wyoming Gaming Commission’s ruling classifying fantasy leagues as illegal gambling platforms has sparked debate over their classification as games of skill or chance.

Critics argue that such regulatory actions may serve to stifle competition and limit consumer choice within the rapidly growing fantasy sports industry.

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The study indicates that introducing iGaming in the six US states where it is regulated leads to an average quarterly revenue rise of 2.44%

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A recent study has challenged the long-held belief that online gaming poses a threat to brick-and-mortar casinos. Commissioned by the iDevelopment and Economic Association (iDEA Growth) and conducted by Eilers & Krejcik Gaming (EKG), the study suggests that far from cannibalizing traditional casino revenue, online gaming might actually be enhancing it.

Online Gaming Boosts Brick-and-Mortar Casino Revenue by 2.44%

The study, titled “Comparing Online and Land-based Casino Gaming,” presents compelling evidence indicating that the introduction of online gaming has a positive impact on the performance of brick-and-mortar establishments.

Jeff Ifrah, founder and general counsel of iDEA Growth, emphasized the significance of these findings, stating that online gambling serves as a catalyst for growth rather than a competitor to land-based casinos.

According to the report, states that have embraced online gaming have experienced notable increases in quarterly revenue. The study suggests that the implementation of iGaming in the six US states where it is regulated results in an average quarterly revenue increase of 2.44%.

EKG’s team of economists and industry experts analyzed data from those six US states, comparing their growth rates with those of states exclusively reliant on land-based casinos. Surprisingly, five out of the six states with legal online gaming surpassed their land-based counterparts in revenue growth.

Online Gaming Rescues Declining Casino Markets, Study Reveals

Matt Kaufman, Managing Director of EKG, emphasized the substantial benefits observed in casino markets that have integrated online gaming. He pointed out that while many states with traditional casino markets have seen declines in recent years, those that have introduced online gaming have witnessed a flattening or even a return to growth in revenue.

The study’s methodology involved a thorough examination of data spanning 16 years, providing a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between online and land-based gaming. It dispels concerns that online gaming would divert patrons from physical casinos, suggesting instead that it attracts a different demographic of players, thus broadening the customer base.

Furthermore, the report highlights the distinct characteristics of online and land-based casino patrons. While online gaming tends to appeal to a slightly younger demographic, with shorter average visit durations, traditional casinos attract a broader age range and offer a more immersive, longer-lasting experience.

As legislative bodies across various states, including Alabama, Indiana and Wyoming, deliberate on the legalization and regulation of online gaming, these findings offer valuable insights. They challenge the conventional wisdom surrounding the relationship between online and traditional gaming establishments, paving the way for a more nuanced understanding of their coexistence and mutual benefit.

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Visitors of the Boulder Station and Wildfire in Las Vegas secured several five-digit jackpots over the last week

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Lucky gamblers at several casinos in Las Vegas secured a number of jackpots over the last week. The announcement follows the Super Bowl LVIII weekend that attracted fans from across the nation who wanted to see the game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers. In light of the big game, Sin City posted record-breaking betting results.

Focusing on jackpots, one lucky visitor at Wildfire, the premium gaming and entertainment venue in Las Vegas, will never forget their most recent visit. On Tuesday, the casino confirmed that one of its lucky visitors was able to hit a five-figure jackpot after wagering less than $2. Wildfire confirmed via its social media profile on X, formerly Twitter, that the lucky winner hit a $10,265.58 jackpot while playing Dancing Drums Prosperity. What’s exciting is that the jackpot was hit with a tiny $1.88 bet.

A Winning Jackpot Streak at Boulder Station

Before that, several visitors secured hefty jackpots when visiting Boulder Station, the luxury casino located minutes off the Las Vegas Strip. The winning streak started with two lucky visitors who hit the jackpot while playing Aristocrat Gaming’s Dragon Link. One of the visitors, identified as Christina S. hit a jackpot on Sunday, while the other lucky gambler, named Chandler, secured a jackpot from Dragon Link on Monday. While Boulder Station released pictures of the two lucky winners, it didn’t confirm the amount of the jackpot they won.

Again, on Monday, the premium casino location confirmed that another five-figure jackpot was won. One fortunate visitor playing Fu Dai Lian Boost hit a jackpot after a $44 bet. As a result, the lucky Boulder Station casino visitor took home the hefty jackpot prize of $11,874.

Separately, another jackpot dropped at Boulder Station recently. A person who placed a $25.00 bet on poker hit a sweet $8,534 jackpot, the premium Las Vegas casino revealed.

Elsewhere, in Maryland, a $5 million lottery jackpot winner confirmed he plans to keep his current job. The lucky lottery player won the grand prize after purchasing tickets for Maryland Lottery’s 50 Years! instant ticket lottery game.

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The latest results showed decreases month-over-month an year-over-year, marking a slow start of 2024 for the three casinos

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The results posted by Detroit’s three casinos in January marked one of the worst figures for the last decade, with the exception of the period during the pandemic. Data released by the gambling regulator in Michigan, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), reveals that the total casino gaming revenue reported by the city’s three casinos last month halted at $93.9 million.

Month-over-month comparison to December 2023 when the revenue hit $111.4 million shows that in January, the casino revenue plummeted by 15.7%. Not unexpectedly, a year-over-year (YoY) comparison also showed a drastic decrease. In January 2023, the revenue reported by Detroit’s three casinos hit $103.4 million. This otherwise means that the revenue last month decreased by more than $10 million year-over-year.

Last month, Michigan collected $7.6 million in taxes based on the revenue reported by the three casinos in Detroit. Compared to December, taxes were approximately $1.4 million less, considering that back then, the tax revenue hit $9 million. Similarly, year-over-year, the tax revenue decreased, considering that in January 2023, it hit $8.4 million.

All Three Casinos Report a YoY Revenue Decrease

A breakdown of the total revenue showed a decrease month-over-month for all three Detroit casinos. The highest share of the revenue in January was reported by MGM Grand, a total of $44.6 million. This result translated to $3.6 million in taxes.

Comparison to December shows that the revenue was down by more than $5 million, considering that MGM Grand reported $50.6 million at the time. Similarly, the venue posted a decrease in its revenue year-over-year when compared to the January 2023 result of $50.2 million.

The second-highest revenue was reported by Motorcity Casino. In total, the casino reported $27.1 million in casino revenue, raising $2.2 million in state tax. While the tax revenue was roughly on par when compared to the $2.8 million result from December, the revenue took a hit. In December 2023, Motorcity Casino posted $34.7 million in total revenue, a result that was nearly $8 million more than the January figure.

In line with previous months, Greektown Casino posted the lowest revenue. The brick-and-mortar venue reported $22.2 million in casino revenue for January. The result marked a decrease when compared to the $26.1 million figure from December but was relatively in the same ballpark when compared to the $22.9 million in revenue posted in January last year. The reported tax last month by Greektown Casino was $1.8 million.

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Petersburg’s City Council has adopted a unanimous decision to allow a resolution that would advance a Destination Resort project

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Last week, the plan to see Petersburg, Virginia turn into the state’s fifth city that would host a casino came one step closer to becoming a reality, thanks to the Virginia Senate clearing Senate Bill 628 that could give the green light to a casino in the city.

Now, according to a unanimous decision announced by the Petersburg City Council, the next phase in advancing a Destination Resort project is underway.

Proposals from Operators and Developers Are Expected

The fresh resolution is leading the way for a Request for Proposal (RFP) issued on February 12 that encourages proposals from casino operators and developers in regard to the “comprehensive economic development project, including a destination resort, real estate development, retail, event venue, and casino.”

Proposals can be presented before March 18 at 10 a.m. EST.

The council’s resolution has justified the RFP using the argument that tax revenue from this type of gaming resort could be employed for the benefit of local infrastructure, education, health, public safety, recreation, parks, and a variety of other initiatives that are expected to build wealth in the community.

Petersburg Thanks Virginia Lawmakers

Virginia state legislation that was passed in 2020 allowed five cities to weigh a commercial casino. The casino referendums held in Bristol, Norfolk, Danville, and Portsmouth were all successful.

Richmond voters, however, rejected the idea of having a casino in the city two times in 2021 and 2023.

Ever since the Petersburg City Council has attempted to gain the right to a similar referendum to ask residents if they would like to have a casino resort in the town. 

Since Richmond’s casino prospects appear to be close to zero, state lawmakers appreciated the idea of seeing Petersburg qualify for sports betting, slot machines, and table games.

The Senate Bill’s chief patron, Senator Lashrecse Aird, together with Senator Louise Lucas, has played a crucial role in advocating for the city’s inclusion “as a host city in General Assembly legislation.”

According to the City Council, the legislative milestone accurately showcases the “collaborative efforts between Petersburg officials and Senator Aird in advancing the bill” and encourages local community members to engage and show support for it.

The Resort Would Include a Casino and 500 Hotel Rooms

The Petersburg RFP features a number of detailed guidelines and recommendations, including a mandatory casino, at least 500 four-star hotel rooms, retail shopping, dining and drinking venues, as well as an entertainment venue.

Petersburg would also only partner with a reputable casino brand with a proven record of financial sustainability and success.

City councilors have also expressed their preference to see the hotel component featuring two separate offerings from well-known hoteliers.

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The proposal introduced by Sen. John Burzichelli calls to maintain the status quo, opponents of smoking say

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The debate about smoking on the casino floor in Atlantic City’s casinos has been ongoing for nearly two decades. Currently, a loophole in New Jersey’s Smoke-Free Air Act allows casinos to permit indoor smoking within an area of up to 25% of their gaming floors. In contrast, the Act prohibits smoking within public areas in the state with that sole exception.

While the debate about smoking is ongoing, a new bill calls to keep the current restriction for smoking to occur within 25% of the casino gaming floors, adding a few conditions. The bill, S2651, which non-smoking activists call maintaining the status quo, is supported by Sen. John Burzichelli and was introduced in the Senate earlier this week. The proposal was referred to the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee for further review and consideration.

While this is a new bill, in its majority, it keeps the current rules about indoor smoking for casinos in Atlantic City. As noted, the bill would keep the existing restriction that limits the casinos from indoor smoking within up to 25% of their gaming floors.

However, under S2651, smoking would be permitted within specially designated smoking areas that offer slots and are located more than 15 feet away from table games with dealers. Additionally, the proposal would enable casinos to permit smoking within designated smoking areas that are separated from the other areas within the casino floor. Dealers who would be working in such areas will have to confirm if they agree to be assigned to such a position.

Anti-smoking Group Criticizes the Newly Proposed Bill

Burzichelli backed his proposal by explaining that it would prevent casinos from closing. He was quoted on the matter by the Associated Press, explaining: “It’s about what we can do to keep casinos open, and how do we get it right.” Additionally, Burzichelli warned: “Losing one casino means thousands of jobs lost.”

The proposal immediately captured the attention of the anti-smoking group, Casino Employees Against Smoking Harmful Effects (CEASE). The group issued a statement claiming Burzichelli’s proposal was “copied and pasted.” In their statement, CEASE explained: “This bill would retain the same level of smoking as is currently permitted and will not decrease in any way the amount of exposure workers have to secondhand smoke.”

The anti-smoking group reiterated that the only proposal that may receive sufficient support is a rival bill that prohibits indoor smoking completely. Previously, Gov. Phil Murphy hinted at his intention to sign such a proposal, should it get enough traction and support. Speaking about the Governor’s support, CEASE predicted that Burzichelli’s bill is unlikely to progress.

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