[Drew68]

The decision to come out against a smoking ban was an incredibly hard one to make. But in our opinion the rights of over a million veterans must be protected. And in the interest of full disclosure yes I do smoke myself.

So, not even an outdoor smoking section for patients or visitors will be permitted?

I couldn't help but notice, however, employees will still be allowed to smoke.

So a patient, a veteran, will not be allowed to use the employee smoking area?

I ask this as a veteran and a former smoker.

[Steve Newton]

It’s my understanding that the ban on smoking for V.A. employee’s has already taken affect. Or will shortly.