A coalition of health groups has formed the Smoke-Free East Baton Rouge to ban smoking in bars and casinos in the parish. Under state law, smoking is banned in public buildings and restaurants statewide, but the measure exempted bars and casinos. “The exemption makes for bad public policy,” said Lydia Kuykendal, a lobbyist for the American Cancer Society Action Network, at a recent press conference.
Last year the New Orleans city council passed an ordinance banning smoking at bars and at Harrah’s New Orleans casino. Casino officials said the smoking ban resulted in a significant drop in year-over-year revenues.
Smoke-free EBR released data indicating 70 percent of parish residents support the ban, up 1 percent from last year. All racial and demographic groups in the parish support the ban; low-income residents and Tea Party members are less supportive.
At L’Auberge Casino & Hotel, Vice President and General Manager Mickey Parenton said, “We won’t speculate about the issue.” He added the casino will have an opinion if and when a smoke-free ordinance is introduced to the council.
Also opposing the smoking ban is libertarian Councilman Ryan Heck, who disagrees with government regulation of businesses.
Supporters of the ban include Joe Hall, owner of the popular bar Phil Brady’s. Hall said business has increased since he imposed a no-smoking after 8:00 p.m. rule. Councilman John Delgado noted business has not suffered at the three of the four bars he owns where smoking is prohibited.
