Creates provisions relating to workplace security for health care professionals
Summary
HB 901 creates two new sections in Missouri law aimed at improving workplace security for health care professionals and hospitals. One section directs the Department of Health and Senior Services to implement an education and awareness program promoting respect for health care professionals and informing the public about the legal consequences of assaulting them.
The bill also establishes a temporary state reimbursement program for hospitals that make qualifying security-related investments. Hospitals could be reimbursed for new physical security improvements or compliant technology, as well as for new payroll costs associated with hiring security personnel, subject to appropriations. To support these reimbursements, the bill creates the Hospital Security Fund in the state treasury, allows the fund to receive appropriations and outside contributions, and exempts remaining balances from reverting to general revenue at the end of the biennium. The reimbursement authority would expire on August 28, 2028.
Impact
HB 901 would amend chapters 192 and 197, RSMo, by adding sections 192.918 and 197.752. It would not broadly regulate health care operations, but it would create a targeted state role in promoting public awareness about assaults on health care workers and in subsidizing hospital security upgrades and security staffing. The bill would affect hospitals seeking reimbursement, the Department of Health and Senior Services, and the state treasury through the new dedicated Hospital Security Fund.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and available context, the measure appears generally supportive of health care worker safety and hospital security. The bill’s framing suggests a policy response to concerns about violence or threats in health care settings, and the reimbursement structure indicates an effort to help hospitals offset security costs. No committee transcript or recorded vote information was provided, so there is no evidence of formal opposition or amendment debate in the available materials.
Contention
The main potential points of contention are fiscal and administrative rather than conceptual. Because reimbursements are subject to appropriations, lawmakers may have concerns about the cost to the state and whether the dedicated fund will receive sufficient funding. Hospitals may also differ on whether the bill’s reimbursement windows, eligibility requirements, and expiration date in 2028 are adequate. Another possible issue is the balance between encouraging security investments and avoiding unfunded mandates or overly narrow compliance standards tied to the National Defense Authorization Act.