Assembly Bill 563 mandates that hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers in Wisconsin implement policies to prevent exposure to surgical smoke in operating rooms. The bill requires the use of a smoke evacuation system during any surgical procedure likely to generate surgical smoke, which is defined as the gaseous byproduct from energy-generating devices, including surgical plume and laser-generated airborne contaminants. However, the requirement for using a smoke evacuation system can be waived if the healthcare provider determines that it is not necessary or advisable for the specific circumstances of the procedure.

The bill also includes definitions for key terms such as "operating room," "smoke evacuation system," and "surgical smoke." The Department of Health Services is tasked with enforcing these requirements, ensuring that patient and staff safety is prioritized during surgical procedures. The legislation aims to enhance health standards in surgical environments by addressing the risks associated with surgical smoke exposure.