(AP) - Atlantic City casinos will gosmoke-free for seven days before allowing gamblers to light upagain.

That's the word from City Council President William Marsh, whosays the unusual arrangement is necessary because the city can'tlegally stop a previously approved smoking ban from taking effecton Wednesday.

Earlier this week, the council gave preliminary approval todelaying the smoking ban for one year due to the economic crisisand fear of massive casino losses and layoffs.

But it still needs a final vote on Oct. 22, and the ban is setto take effect a week before that.

Four casinos owned by Harrah's Entertainment say they will gosmoke-free on the gambling floor anyway on Wednesday, and stay thatway, offering patrons ventilated smoking lounges.