Bill > H2073

This bill amends Massachusetts law to prohibit mandatory overtime for healthcare workers in various medical facilities, with specific protections and guidelines. The legislation defines key terms such as "facility" (including hospitals and certain state-operated healthcare institutions), "health care workforce" (personnel delivering patient care like nurses and support staff), and "mandatory overtime" (hours worked beyond pre-scheduled shifts). Under the bill, facilities cannot require healthcare workers to work overtime except in genuine emergency situations where patient safety is at risk and no reasonable alternatives exist. Before mandating overtime, facilities must first attempt to find voluntary coverage. The bill limits consecutive work hours to 16 in a 24-hour period and requires at least 8 consecutive hours of off-duty time after such extended shifts. Additionally, the health policy commission is tasked with developing detailed guidelines for defining emergency situations, and facilities must publicly report all instances of mandatory overtime. Importantly, the bill protects healthcare workers from discrimination or adverse employment actions if they refuse to work beyond the specified limitations, emphasizing its intent to safeguard both patient care quality and worker well-being.

Health and Social Services, Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2073