FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 8, 2025
Columbus, Ohio – Today, Governor Mike DeWine signed Ohio House Bill 452, The Healthcare Workplace Safety Act, into law marking a significant victory for nurses and health professionals across the state. This legislation addresses the growing crisis of workplace violence in Ohio hospitals, providing new safeguards and protections for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.
“The passage of House Bill 452 is a testament to the strength of solidarity and advocacy by nurses and health professionals,” said Rick Lucas, BSN, RN, CCRN, ONA President and Executive Director. “By standing together, we have taken an important step toward creating safer workplaces.”
The Ohio Nurses Association (ONA) led the charge in advocating for House Bill 452, rallying its members to raise awareness about the critical need for workplace safety measures. The new law will require hospitals to implement comprehensive workplace violence prevention plans and provide resources to better protect healthcare workers.
Lucas continued, “While more must be done to ensure healthcare providers can focus on delivering quality care without the constant threat of violence, this victory is a reminder of what we can accomplish when nurses and health professionals unite and use their collective voice. Unsafe staffing and other workplace challenges still jeopardize patient care and our profession. We must continue advocating for meaningful reforms that make our workplaces safer and strengthen the healthcare system for everyone.”
The ONA urges nurses and health professionals to join the movement for change. For more information on how to get involved, visit www.ohnurses.org.
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About ONA
Formed in 1904, the Ohio Nurses Association is a powerful network of nurses and health professionals. Our mission is to unite and empower nurses and health professionals, championing their rights, promoting professional practice, and advocating for quality care for all patients in Ohio, while fostering a strong and cohesive professional union community. To learn more or to become a member of the Ohio Nurses Association, visit www.ohnurses.org.
Contact: Michelle Day
Director of Communications & Technology
mday@ohnurses.org