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Bill

HD 3502

An Act requiring health care employers to develop and implement programs to prevent workplace violence

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jim Arciero and 50 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill requires health care employers to establish workplace violence prevention programs with training, risk assessments, and reporting procedures to protect staff safety.

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Bill Summary · HD 3502

Legislative bill overview

HD 3502 requires Massachusetts health care employers to develop and implement comprehensive workplace violence prevention programs. The bill mandates specific elements including risk assessments, training protocols, reporting procedures, and supportive resources for affected employees.

Why is this important

Health care workers face disproportionately high rates of workplace violence—including physical assaults, threats, and harassment—often exceeding rates in other industries. Establishing standardized prevention programs could reduce injuries, improve employee retention, and create safer patient care environments across medical facilities.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Employers may argue that mandatory program development and staffing requirements impose significant financial burdens, particularly on smaller health systems
  • Scope definition: Disagreement over what constitutes "workplace violence" in health care settings (e.g., whether to include verbal abuse, threats from patients with cognitive impairment, or family members)
  • Liability and enforcement: Unclear liability framework if employers implement programs but incidents still occur; questions about enforcement mechanisms and penalties for non-compliance

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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