Smoking Ban Critics Urge Lottery Boycott
Some bars, restaurants, and private club owners are fighting back after claims the smoking ban is hurting business. They’re hoping a lottery boycott sends a message.
An event billed on Facebook as the Michigan Lottery Boycott calls for those businesses to not sell certain lottery products from 11 a.m. on Saturday to 2 a.m. on Sunday. The boycott could affect sales of Keno, pull tabs, and other games.
The Michigan Lottery says businesses would only be hurting themselves because they would lose commissions. A business that refuses to sell games could be reviewed by lottery officials.
The Director of Public Relations for the Michigan Lotto, Andi Brancato says, "When we negotiate and make an arrangement with a lottery retailer, we expect them to sell our products. So if we are made aware that they are not selling we would have to take a look at that retailer."
Brady’s in Traverse City has not decided whether or not they will participate in the boycott, but they are feeling the affects of the recently enacted smoking ban.
Wendy Blodgett says “My lunch crowd from the neighborhood is gone. People are not coming in.”
What do you thing about this boycott – do you think it will help the restaurants and bars cause? Leave your thoughts below.
