It’s been almost a year since health departments in Ohio started enforcing the smoking ban for businesses, such as bars and restaurants.

Some people thought it was great to enjoy their meals without inhaling smoke at the same time.

“As far as smoking in a restaurant, I’d rather eat without smoking, sure. It makes your food taste better,” said Ken Atkins of Steubenville.

The ban is still a hot debate because not everyone agrees with it.

“They are treating smokers like secondhand citizens. I sat down right beside people who smoke. It doesn’t make any difference to me,” said Charlie Lathem of Steubenville.

Business owners and people living in the valley agree that fewer customers have been eating out because of the ban.

Froehlich’s Classic Corner in Steubenville is an example. The manager, Laura Froehlich, said business is still good but since they put up no smoking signs, there’s been a slump in sales.

“Unfortunately, yes, we have seen a decrease in our business since the ban has been in effect. Our dinner patrons who enjoy smoking have decided to go elsewhere,” said Froehlich.

Froehlich said a lot of people cross the state line into West Virginia where they can smoke during meals. Others stay true to the state and change their lifestyles.

The Board of Health administrator in Brooke County, W. Va. said 75 percent of the businesses are smoke free already, and the county may have a smoking ban in the near future as well.

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