Ohio’s Largest Cities Can Enforce Local Tobacco Laws, Judge Says

Restrictions on tobacco sales imposed by 14 Ohio cities, including the state’s three largest, will remain in effect in the short term, as a judge on Friday blocked state officials from enforcing a new law that would scuttle local restrictions.

Franklin County Common Pleas Judge Mark A. Serrott issued the temporary restraining order following a hearing involving the cities and the state Department of Health. Serrott’s order barring the state from enforcing the law—which effectively bars local tobacco regulations—against the cities will remain in effect until May 17, when he will decide whether to continue the hold on the law ...