Update on progress of bill to create safe staffing standards in Washington
State senators need to hear loud and clear from their constituents that this bill should stay as strong as possible.
March 2, 2023
We know, and research confirms, that inadequate nurse staffing leads to medical errors, poorer patient outcomes, nurse burnout and injuries to nurses. Our approach to improving nurse staffing is multifaceted, encompassing legislation and policy, staffing committee tools, education and the latest research.
We work with the Washington State Legislature, regulatory agencies and the Governor’s Office to advance stronger laws and policies on safe nurse staffing.
We're currently working on:
During the 2022 Regular Session, which runs Jan. 10 to March 10, our allies in Olympia introduced bipartisan safe staffing legislation in the House (HB 1868) and Senate (SB 5751) that would protect health care workers, improve care for patients and begin to address the staffing crisis.
As we watch these two bills progress in their chambers, legislators need to hear from you about what nurses need to stay on the job. Contact your state lawmakers to show your support.
Past achievements include:
The 2017 Staffing Transparency and Accountability Act, which amends the 2008 staffing law to hold hospitals accountable for nurse staffing plans the work of the staffing committee.
Research consistently confirms that safe nurse staffing is critical to quality of care and patient safety.
We’ve compiled the most significant research supporting safe staffing that you can use to make the case for safe staffing in your hospital and with policymakers.
Staffing committees only work well when nurses get involved and understand their role and responsibilities.
Get information and work samples to help registered nurses serving on staffing committees.
State senators need to hear loud and clear from their constituents that this bill should stay as strong as possible.
March 2, 2023
Six registered nurses who attended WSNA Lobby Day on Feb. 2 in Olympia shared stories and statements about about safe staffing in these short videos.
February 10, 2023
WSNA nurses from across the state visited Olympia on Feb. 2 to advocate for their profession and fight for safe staffing standards.
February 3, 2023
Press release
More than 2,055 signed in to support safe staffing standards legislation.
January 17, 2023
WSNA stands in support of the 7,000 NYSNA nurses on strike against Montefiore and Mt. Sinai hospitals in New York.
January 11, 2023
Press release
Since last session, the hospital staffing crisis has worsened; healthcare workers say safe staffing standards are the solution.
January 5, 2023
WSNA's executive director joins AFT President Randi Weingarten and two registered nurses to discuss what needs to be done.
December 12, 2022
Press release
Report Includes strategies to improve nation’s healthcare facilities and concrete examples of successful implementation.
November 17, 2022
