Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB280

Filed
11/14/16  
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to a grant program for reducing workplace violence against nurses.

Impact

The implementation of HB 280 is expected to amend the Health and Safety Code by adding specific provisions for a workplace violence prevention grant program. This program will be administered by the nursing resource section, which will oversee grant applications aimed at innovative strategies to combat violence against nurses. The effectiveness of the programs funded through these grants will be monitored by requiring recipients to submit periodic reports on violence incidents, thereby enabling a systematic evaluation of successful strategies and best practices throughout the state.

Summary

House Bill 280 establishes a grant program aimed at reducing workplace violence against nurses in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing facilities, and home health agencies. This bill seeks to address the increasing concern over verbal and physical violence faced by nurses, an issue that has gained heightened attention in recent years due to growing reports of such incidents in healthcare environments. By funding innovative approaches to prevent violence, the bill aims to create a safer workplace for nursing professionals, enhancing their ability to provide care without fear of harm.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 280 is generally positive among healthcare professionals and advocates for workplace safety. Supporters view the bill as a necessary step to protect nurses and, by extension, patients, as safer environments promote better care outcomes. However, there may be concerns regarding the sufficiency of funding and the effectiveness of the initiatives proposed. The bill reflects a broader commitment to improving working conditions for healthcare workers, although some skepticism exists about the amount of financial support that will actually be made available to carry out the programs.

Contention

While there are no significant points of contention noted explicitly in the discussions surrounding HB 280, potential arguments could arise regarding the implementation details and allocation of grant funds. Lawmakers and stakeholders might discuss how best to ensure that the grants are used effectively, how to evaluate the success of funded programs, and whether sufficient oversight mechanisms are in place to ensure accountability. Furthermore, debates may surface regarding which approaches should be prioritized in the fight against workplace violence and how to engage healthcare facilities in sustainable solutions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.