# Plain Language Summary: Smoking Ban at VA Facilities

This bill would create a complete smoking ban at all Veterans Health Administration facilities across the country. That means no one—veterans, patients, employees, contractors, or visitors—would be allowed to smoke anywhere on the grounds of VA hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or counseling centers. The ban covers traditional cigarettes, cigars, and pipes, as well as electronic cigarettes and vaping devices.

The rule would apply to every piece of property controlled by the VA's health system, from the buildings themselves to the surrounding grounds. This is a blanket prohibition with no exceptions for designated smoking areas or outdoor spaces on VA property. The bill also repeals an older rule from 1992 that apparently allowed some smoking at these facilities, replacing it entirely with this new no-smoking policy.

For veterans and their families, this means if you visit a VA facility for medical care, appointments, or counseling services, you won't be able to smoke anywhere on the property. If you work at a VA facility, the same rule applies during your shift. The intent appears to be protecting patients and staff from secondhand smoke exposure in healthcare settings, which is a common practice at many hospitals and medical centers nationwide. This could be particularly important for veterans dealing with respiratory issues or other health conditions that smoking might aggravate.

To amend title 38, United States Code, to prohibit smoking on the premises of any facility of the Veterans Health Administration, and for other purposes.

Wenstrup, Brad R.

 <p>This bill prohibits smoking on the premises of any Veterans Health Administration facility. The bill defines smoking as the use of cigarettes, cigars, and pipes (i.e., the heating or combustion of tobacco), as well as the use of any electronic nicotine delivery system.</p>