Workplace smoking is facing a challenge on Capitol Hill, one of the last bastions where smoking in offices persists.

Despite widespread bans across the U.S., some lawmakers, like Rep. Tom Cole, continue to smoke cigars in their offices.

However, recent changes in House leadership, including Cole’s move from the Rules Committee to the Appropriations Committee, have left smokers without a dedicated space.

Cole’s former Capitol hideaway, where cigar smoke once required ventilation system adjustments, was relinquished to his successor, Kay Granger.

With no new space available, House members like Rep. Guy Reschenthaler are rallying to find a solution, suggesting protests in leadership offices, the Wall Street Journal has reported.

While lawmakers have been able to smoke in their offices due to exemptions from D.C. smoking laws, some see it as a vital tradition for bonding and policy discussions.

However, others, particularly nonsmokers, are concerned about the health risks associated with smoking.

Written by B.C. Begley