On March 16, a law went into effect in Romania banning smoking in enclosed public places. Violeta Radoi, general manager of the Slot Organizers Association ROMSLOT, said casino operators are particularly concerned because in other European Union nations, smoking bans have resulted in revenue declines of up to 40 percent at casinos. She added that would impact industry revenue to the state, which in 2012 totaled 5 million in taxes and fees.
Radoi noted gambling halls are exempt from smoking bans in several EU countries, including Belgium, Sweden, Austria and Italy. “Smoking is allowed, under various conditions, in most countries in the EU. Such solutions can be implemented in Romania, too,” she said. In fact, Romanian MP Deputy Daniel Fenechiu has proposed a law that would allow smoking on certain patios and allow smokers to form smoking associations or clubs that could meet in spaces exclusively dedicated to smoking and associated activities.
Meanwhile Radio said several Romanian casinos have been seeking ways to keep players from going outside to smoke, thereby losing revenue. Some have built larger restrooms , which double as smoking zones, although that still is considered illegal, Radoi noted.
Individuals caught smoking in bars, clubs or restaurants risk being fined $127 per incident. Casino, club, bar and restaurant operators who allow smoking indoors risk fines and suspended operations.
However, analysts said after the initial period, casino and bar business is expected to return to normal, and surveys indicate non-smokers actually may visit smoke-free casinos and bars more frequently.
