Stop Healthcare Violence is lobbying for Massachusetts legislation that would increase penalties for assault on healthcare workers from a misdemeanor to a felony.
Currently, there are 34 states that have passed legislation enforcing stricter penalties, and some states have enacted regulations for mandatory workplace violence prevention programs.
Not only is there a need for stricter penalties, but also for documented, mandated workplace violence prevention programs, including employee/employer training, safety and prevention, employee support, and enforced reporting protocol.
A Crisis of Epidemic Proportions
Assaults on healthcare workers have become a crisis of epidemic proportions – and one that is figuratively and literally screaming for more rigorous anti-assault laws.
Strong Laws = MORE HEALTHWORKER PROTECTION
It’s a simple tenet: more stringent penalties mean more healthworker protection.