HB 62 – The Assault on Healthcare Workers Bill – passed out of the Senate with a vote of 33-0 today! The passage of this bill is evidence that violence against nurses will not be tolerated.
The Ohio law calls for tougher penalties for assaults in certain circumstances, including attacks against workers at correctional facilities and people providing emergency medical services, which includes:
- Increases in the penalty for assault to a 5th degree felony when the offender has a history of assault convictions against healthcare workers
- Authorization of a $5,000 fine if an assault is committed
- Authorization of hospitals to post a warning sign indicating abuse or assault of hospital staff will not be tolerated and could result in felony conviction
Nurse assault has been a growing problem for nurses nationwide and one of the core issues NFN is working to address nationally. In fact, it was the theme of last year’s national Labor Academy. Click here to read members’ moving stories and share yours.
Congratulations to ONA and their tireless work on behalf of their nurse membership and nurses everywhere!