Nurses Association applauds passage of violence bill

Makes attacks on rns and lpns a felony

LATHAM, June 21, 2010 - The New York State Nurses Association applauds the Assembly’s passage of legislation to increase the penalty for assaulting a nurse (A3103/S4018). This legislation makes it a felony to physically attack a registered nurse, and licensed practical nurse in New York State.

For many nurses, violence is regularly viewed as “just part of the job.” In constant contact with the public, nurses must often practice in dangerous settings. Factors such as unrestricted access by the general public to healthcare facilities, the presence of gang members and drug and alcohol abusers in the emergency department, and distraught family members all contribute to increased violence in the workplace.

“On behalf of New York’s nurses, I thank the Senate and Assembly for caring about the registered nurses who care for them. This legislation signals to the public that violence against nurses will no longer be tolerated,” said Tina Gerardi, MS, RN, CAE, Nurses Association CEO.

The Nurses Association urges Governor Paterson to swiftly sign this legislation into law.

The New York State Nurses Association is the voice for nursing in the Empire State. With more than 37,000 members, it is the state's largest professional association and largest union for registered nurses. It supports nurses and nursing practice through education, research, legislative advocacy, and collective bargaining.

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