Some of the last public, indoor places in New Jersey where cigarette smokers are permitted to light up would clear their air if officials in this gambling mecca approve a ban on smoking in casinos.

The city council expected to hear from casino workers, public health advocates and
others Wednesday afternoon during the first of two public hearings on the proposal to ban smoking on casinos' gambling floors.

The council introduced the measure earlier this month to ban smoking in all public
places within city limits. The casino floors are now exempt from the statewide smoking ban that took effect in April.

A council vote on the measure is scheduled for Dec. 29, and -- if smoking opponents have their way -- a ban would take effect 20 days after being signed by the mayor.