The future of smoking lounges in Macau casinos is in the public’s hands.

Social Affairs and Culture Secretary Alexis Tam said the government is keeping an “open-minded attitude” on the issue of setting up smoking lounges in VIP rooms, but the final decision will depend on the results of a new public consultation.

Media broadcaster TDM quoted Tam saying, “If the result comes out and they believe that it’s ok to set up smoking lounges in VIP rooms, then our SAR government, the Health Bureau, will discuss this issue with industry representatives and gaming workers.”

In January, the Macau government proposed a tobacco control bill that will enforce a full smoking ban in casinos, including VIP rooms and airport-style smoking pods on gaming floors. The city-state’s plan mirrors efforts in Beijing to reduce smoking in public places.