In the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and persistent staffing challenges, both Oregon and Washington have enacted legislation to reshape how healthcare institutions plan for and staff their facilities. While addressing the same issue, the two states have taken distinct approaches. Oregon’s House Bill 2697, signed by Governor Tina Kotek, introduces stringent nurse-to-patient ratios across various hospital units and mandates new staffing committees and plans. In contrast, Washington’s E2SSB 5236 presents a compromise with less strict staffing requirements but still marks a significant shift in hospital operations.
These groundbreaking laws will significantly impact hospital operations, staffing, and employee rights in both states. Click here to read a general overview of the new laws and legislative approaches on Stoel Rives’ Health Law Insider blog.