Shreveport's SmokeFree Act began effective on Aug. 1, 2021.
The ordinance included bars and gaming facilities.
This ordinance was first passed in July of 2020 with an original implementation date in Aug. 2020. The implementation was later delayed until Aug. of 2021.
Shreveport council members Tabatha Taylor and Gary Brooks have an amendment on today's (Mon.) work session agenda for formal introduction tomorrow (Tues.).
The ordinance can be adopted on May 23.
The amendment provides a new exemption from the Smokefree Act for "riverboats and land-based
casinos provided smoking is prohibited on at least 25% of the floor area on which gambling operations are permitted within the riverboat or land-based casino."
This amendment is intended to both satisfy gaming patrons and increase revenues for the Shreveport casinos.
Gaming revenues for Sam's Town casino have regularly been the lowest in the Shreveport- Bossier area since enactment of the Smokefree Act.
Revenues at Bally's casino have trailed Margaritaville and Horseshoe casinos after the Smokefree Act implemented.
Sam's Town revenues have even been less than Louisiana Downs.
This amendment is needed.
Taylor and Brooks are to be commended for sponsoring this amendment.