Bill > HR3855

This bill amends title 38 of the United States Code to completely prohibit smoking in any facility owned or controlled by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). The prohibition applies to everyone, including veterans, patients, residents, employees, contractors, and visitors. The term "smoke" is broadly defined to include traditional tobacco use (cigarettes, cigars, pipes) as well as electronic nicotine delivery systems like e-cigarettes, vape pens, and e-cigars. The bill covers all VHA-controlled lands and buildings, such as medical centers, nursing homes, domiciliary facilities, outpatient clinics, and readjustment counseling centers. By implementing this comprehensive smoking ban, the legislation aims to create a smoke-free environment across all VHA facilities, potentially improving health outcomes and reducing exposure to secondhand smoke for patients, staff, and visitors. The bill also repeals a previous section of the Veterans Health Care Act of 1992 related to smoking, effectively replacing it with this more comprehensive prohibition.

Health and Social Services, Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3855/all-info