ST. LOUIS — Will St. Louis ever pass a smoking ban?

It looks increasingly unlikely, but, if it is to happen this year, the necessary action may come out of a hearing at City Hall today at 1 p.m.

Central West End Alderman Lyda Krewson has proposed a smoking ban that has been received as anti-business to some, and not strong enough to others.

The bill would ban indoor smoking at bars, restaurants and other places of business — but if only St. Louis County approves similar legislation.

At a pair of hearings earlier this month, restaurateurs Joe Edwards and Kim Tucci applauded the effort, while the American Cancer Society wants a bill with more teeth.

Even if the aldermanic Health Committee endorses the bill today, that’s not a strong indication of overall support from the rest of the board.

And, even then, it would depend on the county, which is reticent to act. St. Louis County Executive Charlie A. Dooley – who has to worry about businesses competing not only with the city, but also St. Charles County — has said that he prefers a statewide ban.