A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for patient protection by limiting the number of mandatory overtime hours a nurse may be required to work in certain providers of services to which payments are made under the Medicare Program.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · August 6, 2026
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.
The Nurse Overtime and Patient Safety Act limits mandatory overtime requirements for nurses at Medicare-participating healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and home health agencies. The bill prohibits providers from requiring nurses to work beyond their scheduled shift, more than 48 hours per week, or more than 12 consecutive hours in a 24-hour period, and bars mandatory work during the 10-hour rest period following a 12-hour shift. Exceptions exist only during declared emergencies or disasters when providers have made reasonable staffing efforts and the emergency response is ongoing. The legislation protects nurses from retaliation or discrimination for refusing mandatory overtime and requires healthcare facilities to develop written policies, post notice of nurse rights, and regularly post schedules. The bill establishes penalties of up to $10,000 per knowing violation and creates a process for nurses to file complaints with the Secretary of Health and Human Services. The requirements take effect one year after enactment, and the bill directs the government to study safe working hour standards for nurses and review overtime practices at federally-operated medical facilities.
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