MA S1522

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

Requires the Department of Public Health and Department of Mental Health to promulgate regulations within 24 months, preceded by 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 after notice constituting a separate offense

Protects employees from discipline or retaliation for complying with patient limits, with access to whistleblower remedies under Chapter 149

Allows suspension of nurse-to-patient ratio requirements during state or national public health emergencies