Bill > HR3415

This bill establishes comprehensive minimum staffing requirements for registered nurses in hospitals to improve patient safety and care quality. The legislation mandates specific nurse-to-patient ratios for different hospital units, ranging from one nurse per patient in trauma emergency and operating room units to six nurses per patient in postpartum and well-baby nursery units. Hospitals must develop transparent staffing plans that consider factors like patient acuity, anticipated admissions and discharges, and specialized nursing requirements. The bill requires hospitals to post actual nurse-to-patient ratios, maintain detailed records, and participate in periodic audits. It provides strong whistleblower protections for nurses who refuse assignments that could compromise patient safety and establishes enforcement mechanisms, including civil penalties up to $50,000 for hospitals that violate the requirements. Additionally, the bill includes provisions to support nurse workforce development through scholarship programs, retention grants, and mentorship projects. The requirements will be phased in over two to four years, with rural hospitals given additional time for implementation, and the bill applies to various types of hospitals, including federal facilities like VA and military hospitals.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3415/all-info