Legislation to address violence against healthcare workers was introduced June 3 in the Michigan House of Representatives.
A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced House Bills (HB) 4532 – 4535 to address violence against healthcare workers in the state. The bills, sponsored by Representatives Natalie Price (D-Berkley), Matthew Bierlein (R-Vassar), Phil Green (R-Watertown Township) and Kara Hope (D-Holt), strengthen penalties for individuals that engage in violent behavior and actions towards staff and volunteers working within a healthcare setting. In addition to strengthening these penalties, the bills create an assisted outpatient treatment pathway for those who have engaged in violent behavior in a healthcare setting, who are experiencing mental and behavioral health issues – providing support and structure for individuals coping with a mental illness.
Resident physicians had the opportunity during the MHA Graduate Medical Education Advocacy Day May 21 to highlight the importance of bipartisan legislation that protects healthcare workers from violence and share information with legislators to advocate on this issue further. HBs 4532-4535 have been referred to the House Judiciary Committee for further consideration. The MHA has worked diligently with the bill sponsors to get this legislation introduced and looks forward to the continued movement of this initiative to promote the safety and well-being of Michigan’s healthcare workforce.
Members with additional questions should contact Elizabeth Kutter at the MHA.