Proposals last year included legislation directed at staffing in nursing homes and another bill addressing staffing in Office of Mental Health facilities. Another bill proposed sought to limit mandatory overtime to sixteen hours. None of these bills were successful. This year these bills may get reintroduced. Additionally, PEF and other groups are working on drafting legislation that would address nurse staffing shortages more globally to include acute care facilities and other health care settings.
Specific legislation is anticipated to be introduced in the next few weeks.
Other Legislation of Interest Several pieces of legislation impacting nurses failed to pass during last year's legislative session. Exempt Clause Repeal - This legislation would repeal the exempt clause that allows unlicensed individuals to provide nursing care in facilities regulated by the Office of Mental Health and Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. Mandatory Continuing Education - The purpose of this legislation is to mandate continuing education for registered nurses. Assisted Living Bill - This comprehensive bill is intended to regulate the assisted living facilities.