Protecting Hospital Staff from Violence: New Laws and Support
This act aims to enhance the safety of hospital employees by introducing federal penalties for assault and intimidation. Additionally, it establishes grant programs for hospitals to improve security, potentially leading to better healthcare services and a safer working environment for medical staff.
Key points
Introduces federal prison sentences and fines for assaulting or intimidating hospital personnel, with harsher penalties for using weapons, causing bodily injury, or during a public emergency.
Establishes a grant program allowing hospitals to apply for funds for staff training (e.g., de-escalation), coordination with law enforcement, and installation of security systems (e.g., surveillance, panic buttons).
Aims to improve safety in hospitals, which could result in better access to and quality of medical services for patients, and reduce absenteeism and turnover among healthcare workers.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_7961
Sponsor: Rep. Dean, Madeleine [D-PA-4]
Process start date: 2022-06-07