Bill would criminalize assaults on hospital workers

What does this do?

This bill would make it a federal crime to attack a hospital worker while they are on the job if the attack interferes with their ability to do their work. A conviction could mean up to 10 years in federal prison, rising to up to 20 years if a weapon is used, someone is injured, or the attack happens during a declared public health or presidential emergency. People with physical, mental, or intellectual disabilities may avoid conviction if their actions were a direct result of that disability.

Who does it affect?

This law would apply to workers employed by or contracted with many types of medical facilities, including general hospitals, long-term care hospitals, rehabilitation centers, cancer hospitals, children's hospitals, critical access hospitals, and rural emergency hospitals.

Why does it matter?

If passed, people who assault on-duty hospital workers could face federal criminal charges and significant prison time. Hospitals could also apply for federal grant money to put toward workplace safety improvements.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Up to $25M/year in federal grants
• 10-year program
• Hospitals apply to U.S. Attorney General

Where does it stand?