The "Keeping Nurses at the Bedside Act of 2023" aims to improve nurse staffing and working conditions in Minnesota hospitals by establishing mandatory nurse staffing and workload committees. Each hospital is required to create these committees to ensure safe staffing levels and develop evidence-based core staffing plans that guide daily staffing schedules. The bill also mandates the commissioner of health to grade and publicly disclose hospital compliance with these plans, while introducing a "Concern for Safe Staffing" form for reporting unsafe staffing situations. Additionally, it prohibits retaliation against nurses who refuse unsafe assignments and outlines penalties for noncompliance, with many provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

The legislation further enhances workplace safety by expanding definitions related to violence against healthcare workers and requiring hospitals to develop comprehensive action plans to mitigate such hazards. It mandates annual updates to these plans and establishes a formal procedure for healthcare workers to request additional staffing in response to violence concerns. The bill also introduces a loan forgiveness program for nurses in nonprofit hospitals, with specific eligibility criteria, and establishes a Trauma Advisory Council to improve the statewide trauma system. Overall, the bill seeks to bolster patient safety, support healthcare workers, and address staffing and educational needs within the healthcare sector.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 144.7055, 144.566, 144.1501, 144.7067
1st Engrossment: 144.653, 144.7055, 144.566, 144.1501, 144.608, 147A.08, 144.7067
2nd Engrossment: 144.653, 144.7055, 144.566, 144.1501, 144.608, 147A.08, 144.7067
2nd Engrossment: 144.653, 144.7055, 144.566, 144.1501, 144.608, 147A.08, 144.7067
1st Engrossment: 144.653, 144.7055, 144.566, 144.1501, 144.608, 147A.08, 144.7067