Finds that the continuing number of assaults in state hospitals have made conditions for both patients and staff unacceptable. The legislature further finds that appropriate nurse staffing levels will result in improved patient and staff safety and a reduction in the number of workplace injuries. Therefore, to improve safety conditions in the state hospitals, the legislature intends that minimum patient assignment limits and nurse staffing ratios and other safety measures be implemented as an urgent public policy priority.

Requires that, by January 1, 2008, the department must establish, after considering the recommendations of the staffing committee: (1) Patient assignment limits by nursing personnel classification; and

(2) A staffing ratio for each patient care unit at a state hospital.

Requires each state hospital to ensure that all nursing personnel are equipped with a properly functioning personal alarm at all times that the employee is on duty.

Requires each state hospital to provide staff with protective safety equipment. The state hospital and the safety committee must determine within six months of the effective date of this act: (1) The types of equipment needed;

(2) The proper locations to store the equipment;

(3) The quantities of equipment necessary to ensure that all staff are equipped with or have easy access to personal protective equipment; and

(4) Policies on the effective use of the equipment.

Requires the department of labor and industries to inspect the state hospitals every six months to determine whether the provisions of this act are being followed. The department of labor and industries shall report to the legislature by November 25, 2007, with annual reports due by December 15th thereafter.