New Jersey, Georgia pass HCW violence prevention legislation

Editor's Note

New Jersey Gov Phil Murphy, on May 8, signed legislation that criminalizes threats against healthcare workers (HCWs), the May 9 Becker’s Hospital Review reports.

The “Health Care Heroes Violence Prevention Act,” makes it a disorderly person offense to threaten any HCW, “with the intent to intimidate, interfere with, or impede” the HCW’s performance of official duties, punishable by up to 6 months in prison and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

The state of Georgia also has addressed violence against HCWs, with legislation signed on May 2 by Gov Brian Kemp that increases penalties for those committing violence against HCWs and allows hospital campuses to establish police forces.