Brief Description: Reducing workplace violence in state hospitals.

Sponsors: Representatives Conway, Wood, Green, Hudgins, McCoy, Lovick, Darneille, Morrell, Chase, Cody, Kenney and Sells.

Hearing Date: 1/24/05

Staff: Jill Reinmuth (786-7134).

Background:

According to a Department of Labor and Industries report published in 2004, data from 1995 to 2000 show that social services and health services accounted for over 50 percent of assault- or violence-related claims in the workplace. From 1993 to 2003, the rate of assault-related claims at state mental hospitals was 8.4 per 100 full-time employees.

Legislation enacted in 2000 required state mental hospitals to take certain actions related to protecting employees from workplace violence. In particular, state hospitals were required to:

• Develop and implement plans to protect employees from workplace violence;
• Provide violence prevention training; and
• Keep records of violent acts committed against employees or patients at the hospitals.

In addition, the Department of Social and Health Services (the Department) was required to report annually to the Legislature on efforts to reduce workplace violence annually.

Legislation enacted in 2003 repealed this reporting requirement.

Summary of Bill:

The requirement that the Department of Social and Health Services report annually on its efforts to reduce violence in state hospitals is restored. The report must be made to the House Commerce & Labor Committee and the Senate Commerce & Trade Committee by September 1 of each year.

Rules Authority: The bill does not contain provisions addressing the rule-making powers of an agency.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 20, 2005.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.