H.R. 3855: 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.

This bill seeks to amend existing law concerning smoking regulations within facilities operated by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). The key aspects of the bill are as follows:

Prohibition on Smoking

The bill proposes a complete ban on smoking within any facility that falls under the jurisdiction of the VHA. This includes but is not limited to:

• Medical centers
• Nursing homes
• Domiciliary facilities
• Outpatient clinics
• Centers that provide readjustment counseling

According to the bill, no individuals—including veterans, patients, residents, employees, contractors, or visitors—would be allowed to smoke on these premises.

Definitions of Smoking

The bill defines "smoking" broadly to encompass:

• The use of traditional tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, and pipes.
• The use of electronic nicotine delivery systems, which includes e-cigarettes, vape pens, and similar devices.

Facility Definition

A "facility of the Veterans Health Administration" is clearly defined as any land or building that:

• Is operated under the authority of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Is managed by the Veterans Health Administration.
• Is not administered by the General Services Administration.

Related Amendments

The bill also includes provisions for conforming amendments to existing legislation, such as:

• Updating the table of sections in the related U.S. Code to reflect the new prohibition on smoking.
• Repealing the relevant section of the Veterans Health Care Act of 1992 that conflicts with this new prohibition.

Conclusion of Legislative Process

This legislation is still in its early stages, having been introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs for consideration.

Relevant Companies

None found