Health Law Advisor

By Amy J. Traub and Ian Gabriel Nanos

A new law in Massachusetts prohibits hospitals from requiring nursing staff to work mandatory overtime under most circumstances.  The law, which will go into effect in 90 days, has strong support from the Massachusetts Nurses Association/National Nurses United.  Citing increased chances for costly mistakes and the dangers to patients associated with mandatory overtime, representatives of the Nurses Association applauded the measure, stating that it will protect patients and ensure safe, quality patient care, while saving money.

Employers ...