St. Louis Board of Aldermen tentatively passes smoking ban

KSDK -- St. Louis Aldermen tentatively passed a bill that will ban smoking in public places in the city. A final vote will be held next week.

The decision comes as St. Louis County voters prepare to vote on a county-wide smoking ban on the ballot November 3.

The city's ban is dependent on the county ban being approved by voters. It would only apply to indoor areas and exempt gaming floors of casinos and outdoor patios.

Kirkwood also has a smoking ban on the November 3 ballot.

The city bill passed 20-7. The effective date, which would be January 2011 if the county passes its ban, would be delayed five years for bars under 2,000 square feet.