Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB2584

Introduced
4/13/23  

Caption

SAVE Act Safety From Violence for Healthcare Employees Act

Impact

The legislation proposes to authorize federal grants aimed at improving safety measures in healthcare facilities. It includes provisions for programs that will provide training for hospital staff, coordination with law enforcement, and the implementation of security technologies such as surveillance systems and panic buttons. By facilitating these enhancements, the bill aims to reduce incidents of violence, thereby improving workplace conditions for healthcare employees and ensuring better patient care outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 2584, known as the 'Safety From Violence for Healthcare Employees Act' or the 'SAVE Act,' aims to enhance the safety of hospital personnel from violence and intimidation. It recognizes that workplace violence against healthcare workers has been a persistent issue, significantly worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill focuses on federal involvement in combating this trend, placing responsibility primarily on state and local authorities for prosecution while calling for increased federal oversight to address the inadequacies of existing laws.

Contention

Notably, the bill will amend existing federal law to introduce stricter penalties for those who assault or intimidate hospital personnel, including fines and potential imprisonment. It also specifies enhanced penalties for crimes involving weapons or resulting in bodily injury. Critics may raise concerns regarding the implications of federal oversight on local hospital policies and the burden of compliance, while supporters argue for the urgent need to prioritize the safety of healthcare workers amidst growing violence in the sector.

Companion Bills

US SB2768

Related SAVE Act Safety From Violence for Healthcare Employees Act

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