Rep. Gonzales Announces Passage of Legislation to Protect Healthcare Professionals

State Representative Anne Gonzales (R-Westerville) today has announced the passage of House Bill 62, legislation to increase the penalty for assault when the victim is a registered nurse of a licenses practical nurse engaged in the performance of official duties.

H.B. 62 authorizes a $5,000 fine for assault when the victim is a hospital healthcare professional, healthcare worker, or security officer. This legislation also increases the penalty for such assault to a fifth degree felony if the offender was previously convicted of a specified homicide or assault offense committed against any of the specified hospital personnel.

“Violence against our healthcare professionals is an issue that we cannot afford to ignore,” said Representative Gonzales. “House Bill 62 is an important step in protecting the nurses on the front lines of healthcare.”

House Bill 62 passed in the House by a vote of 79-3.