A statewide ban on smoking in Ohio is now in effect.

The ban passed by a large majority in November, but wasn’t enforced until now.

While many people support it, some said it will actually end up hurting Ohio in the long run.

Smoking will be illegal in most public places like bars and restaurants. The Bridgeport Eagles falls under the ban, and officials there said the ban will hurt business.

"They put this smoking ban in Ohio you might as well kiss all your fraternal organizations goodbye," said Carol Giles, a state officer with the Eagles.

About 80 percent of the people who play Bingo at the Eagles club smoke, according to the club’s secretary Rick Kolb.

He said they’ll go across state lines to play if they can’t light up.

"They've already said when this ban goes into effect, a lot of them will not come back," said Kolb.

He said if they have lower attendance, they’ll have less money to donate to charities across Ohio. He said most of the money they donate comes from Bingo and said he expects attendance to steadily dwindle.

The club is working is trying to get an exemption from the smoking ban. A judge could decide by May 14.

Stay with NEWS9 for continuing coverage.

John Paul, NEWS9