Summit County smoking ban could get delayed

AKRON -- Summit County?s indoor smoking ban due to go into effect two weeks from today could get delayed until next year because of opposition from Akron and other communities.

Two county lawmakers have introduced legislation to delay the ban until January 1st.

Akron and at least two suburban communities plan to opt out of the ban. Backers of the delay say restaurants in communities that opt out would have an unfair advantage.

The ban would cover most indoor smoking, except for private homes.

A smoking-ban backer says he might support a delay if it leads to a serious debate.