MGM Grand Rescinds Fee to Guarantee Non-Smoking Room
February 18, 2011
Facing a public outcry, the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas has rescinded its new $20 per day fee for customers to “guarantee” a non-smoking room. It's the right thing to do. As we said in a public statement earlier this week, no one should have to pay extra to avoid exposure to a toxic substance that causes lung cancer, heart disease and other serious illnesses.
We encourage MGM Resorts to go further and adopt a smoke-free policy for all of its rooms and properties.
As USA TODAY reported this week, a growing number of hotels and other lodgings have done just that. Altogether, more than 12,900 lodgings are now smoke-free in the United States. Westin led the way in 2006, and other smoke-free chains include Marriott, the Ritz-Carlton, Walt Disney, Sheraton and Comfort Suites.
It's good for the health and comfort of customers and employees. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, tobacco smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, including at least 69 that cause cancer.
And it's good for business. Going smoke-free saves on cleaning costs and it's increasingly what the public expects.
For travelers looking for a smoke-free experience, check out the great resources compiled by Americans for Nonsmokers' Rights.