NY A11015

Requires acute care facilities to submit annual documented staffing plans to the Department of Health specifying minimum direct-care nurse-to-patient ratios for each nursing unit, with specific ratios established for various unit types (e.g., 1:1 in operating rooms and intensive care units, 1:4 in medical/surgical units, 1:6 in well-baby nurseries).

Mandates facilities maintain daily records of patient census, individual patient acuity levels, and identity and duty hours of direct-care nurses in each unit for seven years and make this information available to the Department and public (with patient privacy protections).

Grants direct-care nurses the right to refuse work assignments if they lack necessary training or if the assignment violates safe staffing requirements, prohibiting retaliation and establishing a private right of action for employees against facilities that violate this protection, including damages and attorney fees.

Establishes a 13-member committee (at least 60% registered nurses) to advise the Commissioner on staffing regulations, acuity systems, and staffing plan approvals, with members appointed by the Governor, legislative leaders, and nursing representatives.

Imposes civil penalties up to $500 per deficiency per day for violations and up to $10,000 per day for non-compliance with nurse-to-patient ratios, with penalties collected into a fund to support healthcare facility improvements prioritizing staffing ratio enhancements.

Requires nursing homes to maintain minimum staffing ratios beginning two years after enactment: 2.4-2.8 hours per resident daily by certified nurse aides, 1.15-1.3 hours by licensed practical or registered nurses, and 0.55-0.75 hours by registered nurses.