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Bill

S 1718

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

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Brady and 21 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill requires healthcare employers to establish workplace violence prevention programs including staff training and threat assessment protocols to protect workers.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 1718

Legislative bill overview

S 1718 requires Massachusetts healthcare employers to develop and implement comprehensive workplace violence prevention programs. The bill mandates training, threat assessment protocols, and safety measures designed to protect healthcare workers from occupational violence.

Why is this important

Healthcare workers face disproportionately high rates of workplace violence compared to other professions. Systematic prevention programs can reduce injuries, improve worker retention, and create safer patient care environments, though implementation costs will vary by facility size.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Small healthcare facilities may struggle with compliance expenses for training, security infrastructure, and administrative oversight
  • Defining "workplace violence": Ambiguity about what incidents trigger reporting and response protocols could lead to inconsistent enforcement
  • Liability and documentation: Requirements may increase legal exposure if incidents occur despite prevention measures, and unclear documentation standards could create compliance burden
  • Resource allocation: Mandates may divert funding from patient care services in already financially strained healthcare systems

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

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