July 15, 2009

Senator Michael O. Moore Files Legislation
to Protect Healthcare Professionals  

BOSTON —  Senator Michael O. Moore (D-Millbury) offered testimony before the Joint Committee on the Judiciary relative to a bill he filed to protect nurses and other healthcare professionals. If passed, this legislation would set a minimum jail sentence of 90 days and up to 2-1/2 years, a fine of up to $5,000 or both for assault and battery against registered nurses while they are providing care to patients.  Senate Bill 1753, also known as the “Nurses Assault and Battery Bill”, was discussed during a hearing of the joint committee held at the State House on Tuesday July 14, with several Worcester area elected officials offering testimony. District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr., along with fellow district attorney’s from Essex and Bristol County, was present to speak on behalf of a Nurses Assault and Battery Bill.

“This bill will provide needed protections to those individuals on the front line of the healthcare system, who deserve to know that acts of assault and battery against them will be met with appropriate penalties,” said Senator Moore.  “The treatment and safety of patients is at its best when nurses, EMT’s and other healthcare professionals are free from worries over their own wellbeing at work. I am hopeful that the Joint Committee on the Judiciary will quickly release this bill with a favorable recommendation.”

Also testifying on behalf of the bill were Senator Jennifer L. Flanagan (D-Leominster), Senator Harriette L. Chandler (D-Worcester) and Representative Geraldo Alicea (D-Charlton). In addition to nurses, S. 1753 would also offer protections to physical and occupational therapists, emergency medical technicians and ambulance operators.

The Nurses Assault and Battery Bill is now pending a decision from Joint Committee on the Judiciary.

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