Feret Bill to Reduce Workplace Violence Against Health Care Workers Passes

DENVER, CO – The House today passed legislation sponsored by Representative Lisa Feret to reduce workplace violence for health care workers. SB25-166 passed by a vote of 53-10.

“Health care workers are far more likely to experience workplace violence than any other profession, necessitating this legislation to keep Colorado health care workers safe,” said Rep. Lisa Feret, D-Arvada. “Health care workers should never have to worry about their physical and emotional safety on the job, and this bill gets us one step closer to providing the safety and security they deserve.”

SB25-166 would add a workplace violence performance metric to the state’s quality incentive program and empower the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) to consult with stakeholders to address workplace violence.

In consultation with stakeholders, HCPF would develop workplace violence performance metrics, explore funding opportunities, and provide legislative recommendations. The group would include Medicaid providers, hospital associations, rural hospital representatives, nurse representatives, and relevant state agencies. HCPF would be required to consult with the Department of Public Health and Environment and other stakeholders by September 1, 2025. The bill would also empower HCPF to assess hospitals’ adoption of a formal workplace violence policy.

Health care and social service workers experience the highest rates of workplace violence-related injuries and are five times more likely to be injured on the job compared to other industries.