The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community has announced that Ojibwa Casino Baraga and Ojibwa Casino Marquette will be free from smoking and vaping starting March 24, 2025. Both gaming facilities are located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Keweenaw Bay tribe cites health concerns
The vast majority of casinos owned by tribal nations in Michigan are now smoke-free. Citing concerns for the health of its employees and customers, Ojibwa Casino said the change will be made in “all casino venues, restaurants, and the hotel …” The decision, the tribe says, “will protect thousands of staff and customers.”
Visitors to Ojibwa casinos will still be permitted to smoke outside in designated areas.
In a press release, the tribe said:
“This decision underscores our commitment to providing a healthier, more comfortable environment for all guests and team members…The health benefits of smoke-free facilities are well-documented, ranging from improved air quality to a significant reduction in exposure to secondhand smoke, which can cause serious health risks. This initiative reflects Ojibwa Casinos’ dedication to the well-being of all who visit or work at the properties.”
Ojibwa Casinos follow in footsteps of Kewadin
This decision by Ojibwa Casinos is coming off a similar decision by Kewadin Casinos. Last fall, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians board of directors voted to ban smoking inside its five UP casinos.
In contrast to the efforts made by tribal-owned and operated casinos, the three commercial casinos in Detroit still permit smoking in designated areas. After going smoke-free due to the pandemic, the Detroit casinos brought back selected smoking areas in late 2022. That issue was referenced as part of the reason casino workers in Detroit elected to go on strike in 2023. However, the areas still exist despite a new contract for the employees.
