When working in the operating room the surgical team is exposed to surgical smoke every day from several different devices such as an electrosurgical unit, lasers, and high-speed power systems. There is also additional concern about the hazards of surgical smoke during COVID 19. It has been known since 1988 about the hazards of surgical smoke when a “Hazard Information Bulletin” was first issued from OSHA and NIOSH. There are currently no national regulations that exist to require smoke safety in the operating room, therefor there is a need for legislation state by state to inform about the hazards of surgical smoke for the protection of the surgical team and patients. It is important to be an advocate for surgical smoke evacuation in your facility by getting involved and becoming a smoke safety champion. This program will discuss the current legislative status for surgical smoke safety in the U.S and the importance of being an advocate for smoke evacuation. There is also a review of the step-by-step process for creating new or updating AORN guidelines. The AORN hierarchy of evidence and guideline recommendation levels are discussed as well the updated AORN guideline for surgical smoke safety.