The American state of New York has passed legislation to mandate minimum staffing ratios in hospitals and nursing homes.
The state legislature passed the measure the week before International Nurses Day, which will see ratios applied across both hospital and aged care settings.
The bill’s sponsor, Gustavo Rivera, called the bill’s passage “an historic moment”.
“The goal is here to not only protect people,” he told the New York State legislature.
The New York State Nurses Association supported the move, calling the measures “a good start”.
“Finally, we could have a strong law and tools we need to advocate for our patients,” Nurses Association treasurer Nancy Hagans said.
The bill was supported by healthcare unions, as well as hospital lobbyists including Greater New York Hospital Association and the Healthcare Association of New York State.
The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association is continuing its fight for mandatory minimum staffing ratios in both hospitals and aged care. You can be part of the campaign by joining the Association here.