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One of CHA’s highest legislative priorities this year has been Senate Bill (SB) 227 (Leyva, D-Chino), which would create duplicative and mandatory fines for hospitals if they do not meet required nurse staffing ratios. With help from member hospitals, our advocacy generated key amendments last week, including:
- An exemption for hospitals that — in response to an unforeseeable and uncontrollable fluctuation — promptly make an effort to maintain staffing requirements
- A 50% reduction in the fines (now $15,000 for the first violation and $30,000 subsequently)
- A reduction in the length of time required to revert to a first violation (lowered from six years to three)
CHA continues its advocacy to oppose the bill on behalf of hospitals as it progresses through the Legislature. The bill will next be heard in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.