Pennsylvania House Bill HB2247

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/29/24
• Refer: 4/29/24

Caption

Providing for violence prevention committees in health facilities, for duties of committees, for workplace violence reporting requirements and for powers and duties of the Department of Labor and Industry; and imposing fines and administrative penalties.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2247 would introduce new regulations focused on workplace safety, specifically targeting violence against workers in health facilities. By creating these committees and enforcing reporting requirements, the bill aims to enhance the safety protocols in healthcare settings. The establishment of such measures could lead to improved reporting of incidents, better training for employees on how to handle violent situations, and ultimately a safer work environment for healthcare professionals. Moreover, it would impose fines and administrative penalties for non-compliance, adding a regulatory dimension designed to ensure adherence to safety mandates.

Summary

House Bill 2247 aims to establish violence prevention committees within health facilities, assigning specific duties to these committees that focus on addressing workplace violence. The bill also includes provisions for mandatory reporting of workplace violence incidents and outlines the powers and responsibilities of the Department of Labor and Industry in relation to these matters. This legislative measure is a response to the growing concerns about safety in health environments, particularly for healthcare workers who are often exposed to violent incidents in their day-to-day operations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2247 appears largely supportive within the healthcare community, with many stakeholders acknowledging the need for better protection against workplace violence. Supporters believe that the bill is a crucial step towards safeguarding healthcare workers, and they argue that the proactive measures proposed could significantly reduce the risk of violent incidents. However, there are also concerns expressed by some industry groups regarding the feasibility of the reporting requirements and the potential administrative burdens such measures may impose on health facilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between ensuring adequate reporting of workplace violence while not overwhelming health facilities with excessive bureaucratic processes. Critics argue that while the intention of the bill is commendable, the practical implications of enforcing strict reporting requirements could strain resources within health facilities, especially smaller ones. Additionally, the imposition of fines and administrative penalties raises questions about the fairness and practicality of enforcement, and whether it could lead to unintended consequences such as underreporting out of fear of penalties.