Kansas is taking a step towards a healthier environment by moving towards prohibiting indoor smoking in casinos. This move has been welcomed by health advocates who have been pushing for this change for years.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has proposed a new regulation that would prohibit smoking in all indoor areas of casinos, including gaming floors, restaurants, and bars. The regulation is currently under review by the Kansas Legislature’s Administrative Rules and Regulations Committee.

This move is not only beneficial for the health of casino employees but also for the health of patrons who visit these establishments. Secondhand smoke is a known carcinogen and can cause a range of health problems, including lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke. Even brief exposure can be harmful to health. The CDC also reports that smoke-free policies are the only effective way to protect nonsmokers from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

Many states have already implemented smoke-free policies in casinos, including California, Colorado, Illinois, and New York. These policies have been successful in reducing exposure to secondhand smoke and improving the health of casino employees and patrons.

Opponents of smoke-free policies argue that they can harm business and lead to a decrease in revenue. However, studies have shown that smoke-free policies do not have a negative impact on business. In fact, they can attract more customers who prefer a smoke-free environment.

In addition to the health benefits, smoke-free policies can also save money on healthcare costs. According to the CDC, smoke-free policies can reduce healthcare costs by up to $72 million per year.

Overall, Kansas’ move towards prohibiting indoor smoking in casinos is a positive step towards creating a healthier environment for everyone. It is important for other states to follow suit and implement similar policies to protect the health of their citizens.