This bill amends the existing laws governing the health care workplace safety commission by adding a representative from Hampstead Hospital to its membership, thereby enhancing the commission's oversight and inclusivity. It mandates that health facilities report incidents of workplace violence and hostile words to the Department of Labor on a monthly basis, in addition to the annual reports already required. The bill also repeals the exemption that previously allowed state-operated health care facilities to be outside the commission's jurisdiction, ensuring that all health care facilities are held to the same standards regarding workplace safety.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that the annual reports generated by the commission will not be confidential, although they will only contain aggregate data that does not identify individual incidents or patients. This change aims to promote transparency while still adhering to confidentiality requirements. The bill also includes provisions to protect individuals who report incidents from retaliation, ensuring a safer environment for employees to voice concerns about workplace violence. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 151-J:1, 277-C:2, 151-J:7, 151-J:9
Version adopted by both bodies: 151-J:1, 277-C:2, 151-J:7, 151-J:9
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 151-J:1, 277-C:2, 151-J:7, 151-J:9
SB29 text: 151-J:1, 277-C:2, 151-J:7