If the legislation gains momentum, Missouri could join a growing list of states moving toward smoke-free casinos
Missouri lawmakers are considering new legislation that could bring major changes to indoor smoking rules across the state’s casinos. Two bills introduced in the state House would expand smoke-free protections and remove long-standing exemptions that currently allow smoking inside casino floors.
The proposals, known collectively as the Missouri Indoor Clean Air Act, are sponsored by Representatives Bruce Sassman and Adrian Plank. If approved, the bills would prohibit smoking in most indoor workplaces and public spaces. Casinos are specifically included among the locations where smoking would no longer be allowed.
Supporters of the legislation say the focus is on worker health rather than limiting personal choice. Casino employees often spend long shifts exposed to secondhand smoke, which advocates argue creates unnecessary health risks. The bills aim to align casinos with other indoor workplaces that already operate under smoke-free rules.
Joe Hafley, who represents casino workers through an advocacy group focused on smoke exposure, has spoken in favor of the measures. He says employees with asthma and other respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable and should not have to choose between their health and their jobs.
Public reaction to the proposal has been mixed. Some residents say smoky casino environments discourage them from visiting and believe a smoke-free setting would make casinos more welcoming. Others argue that smoking should still be allowed in designated areas to accommodate both smokers and non-smokers.
The bills do include certain exceptions, though lawmakers have made it clear that casinos would not qualify for indoor smoking under the new framework. That change would mark a shift for Missouri’s gaming industry, which has operated with smoking allowances for years.
Both bills are still in the early stages of the legislative process.
