Assemblyman David G. McDonough (R, C, I – Merrick) is proud to announce final passage of Assembly Bill 11711, to prohibit employers from mandating overtime for nurses, except in cases of emergency. The bill was passed by both houses yesterday and is currently awaiting consideration by Governor Paterson.

"Nurses are talented and compassionate caregivers who ensure our health and best interests are protected. However, across the state, nurses are unjustly over worked and over tired. After many years of working to protect nurses from mandated overtime, I am very pleased that this measure has passed in both houses. I urge the Governor to quickly sign this bill into law," said the Assemblyman.

Specifically, the legislation restricts the consecutive hours of work by nurses, with the exception of times of emergency. Additionally, the legislation does not prohibit a nurse from seeking voluntary overtime work and protects nurses who refuse overtime hours from patient abandonment or neglect. The legislation is supported by the New York State Nurses Association as well as a variety of other healthcare organizations.

"I know, as most do, from personal and professional experience that nurses are the workhorses of our healthcare operations and this bill will make certain that the best possible healthcare is being provided and that nurses are given the same rights as other professionals.

I will continue to push for nurses’ rights and education aid to assist with recruiting so that our hospitals are properly staffed," commented McDonough.