Mandatory overtime for nurses is now prohibited in New York.
The Department of Labor has announced an update to the state’s labor laws which prevents employers from requiring nurses work more than their regularly scheduled hours.
There are some exceptions to this though, such as a healthcare disaster, a declaration of emergency, or when required for safe patient care such as during an unforeseen emergency or an ongoing medical or surgical procedure. Healthcare employers are also required to to notify the Department of Labor when the exceptions are in use and display posters informing nurses of the new law.
“Nurses are the backbone of our state’s health care system,” said New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon. “We need to recognize their invaluable contributions by ensuring they have the support and protections they need to do their job effectively. This new law prevents burnout and empowers these essential workers to continue providing exceptional care to New York families statewide.”
A campaign will be launched to educate healthcare employers and nurses about the new law.
