MA H2448

Establishes statewide limits on the number of patients a registered nurse can be assigned at one time, with specific ratios for each hospital unit including emergency, ICU, surgical, psychiatric, pediatric, and maternal care areas

Requires the Department of Public Health and Department of Mental Health to promulgate regulations within 24 months, following a series of public hearings throughout the commonwealth

Authorizes enforcement by the Attorney General with civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation, with each day of continued violation counting as a separate offense

Prohibits retaliation against employees who comply with patient limits, with affected workers entitled to whistleblower protections under existing state law

Allows suspension of the staffing requirements during declared state or national public health emergencies