News

Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Smoking bans hit gaming revenues

A study by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation suggests that the smoking ban in public places will cost the province of Ontario around $500 million of lost annual gaming revenues. The report also suggests revenue at casinos and racetracks would fall by between 15 and 20 per cent because of the ban.

The ban goes into effect May 31 and forbids lighting up in bars, restaurants, casinos, bingo halls and racetracks, among other public places. Ontario is one of an increasing amount jurisdictions that have introduced smoking bans over the last couple of years.