A proposal by a national anti-smoking advocacy group to shareholders of three major casino operators showed significant support for the group’s proposal that the operator study the financial impact of continuing to allow smoking inside their casinos.
Following the conclusion of the three major casino companies’ shareholder meetings, nearly 57 million of the total shareholder proxy votes were in favor of a proposal to study the economic impact of maintaining indoor smoking at casinos owned by Bally’s Corporation, Boyd Gaming and Caesars Entertainment. None of the shareholder votes resulted in a majority of support from respondents.
Caesars Entertainment was the last of the three shareholder votes. According to Caesars Entertainment’s SEC filing, nearly 35.3 million shareholder proxy votes, or 18.9 percent, supported the proposal.
“With nearly 57 million shareholder proxy votes having been cast in favor of simply studying the costs of continuing to allow indoor smoking at Boyd, Bally’s and Caesars casinos, it’s fair to say we have the attention of the highest levels of casino companies that are jeopardizing the health of their workers and guests,” said Cynthia Hallett, president and CEO of the American Nonsmokers’ Rights Foundation (ANRF).
“We are encouraged by the strong investor support that will allow these proposals to be brought back for a vote next year. We’ve been able to bring this issue front and center for boards of directors and the gaming industry, emphasizing that there is significant investor support for studying the business benefits of implementing a smoke-free indoor air policy.”
At all three shareholder meetings where the ANRF and Trinity Health submitted their proposals, shareholders easily surpassed the 5 percent threshold required for a proposal in its first year to be eligible for a vote at next year’s annual shareholder meeting. To resubmit a proposal, it must receive 5 percent support in the first year, 15 percent in the second year, and 25 percent in the third year.
“We shouldn’t have to jeopardize our health every time we go to work. It’s 2024, and the dangers of secondhand smoke are well-documented,” said Paula Larson-Schusster, president of UAW Local 3555 in Las Vegas, a table games dealer at the Flamingo, and a leader of Casino Employees Against Smoking Effects (CEASE) in Nevada.
“Having a smoke-free workplace would not only enhance our quality of life but also boost overall morale and productivity among staff. This support from shareholders gives us hope for a healthier future in our workplaces.”
