While serving as a panelist for SUNY Upstate Medical University’s recent “Respect and Heal Conference,” New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo continued his advocacy for legislation, policies and procedures that would prevent workplace violence in healthcare settings.

 

This includes a bill (S.6662) that Sen. Griffo has introduced that would give prosecutors the option of charging an individual who intends to or causes physical injury to any healthcare professional performing their assigned duty with second-degree assault, a Class D felony.

 

Currently, anyone who assaults a registered nurse, licensed practical nurse or medical or related personnel in hospital emergency departments can be charged with second-degree assault.

 

Sen. Griffo’s bill would expand this statute to cover other healthcare personnel, including physicians, physician assistants, primary care providers, nurses and nursing staff (such as registered nurses, nurse practitioners, licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants), ambulance personnel, hospital directors, medical directors, and any employee, attendant, agent, or volunteer acting in an official capacity.

 

Physicians, nurses, and other healthcare employees are exposed daily to potential assault or other violent situations in the course of their duties. According to surveys by the American College of Emergency Physicians and the Emergency Nurse Association, almost half of emergency department physicians report being physically assaulted at work, while nearly 70% of emergency nurses report being hit and kicked while on the job. A 2025 report by the American College of Surgeons found that, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare workers are five times more likely to experience violence than other occupations.

 

Recently, an individual was arrested by Utica Police after he assaulted a healthcare provider at Wynn Hospital in Utica.

 

“Unfortunately, we have seen violent and aggressive behavior against healthcare workers rising across the nation,” Sen. Griffo said. “This is unacceptable. The work that these men and women do every day is critical to the wellbeing of our communities and society. They should be respected and protected in the workplace. I will continue to advocate and push for solutions that will hold those committing violent acts accountable and unsure that they face more severe consequences for their actions.”

 

Additionally, Sen. Griffo cosponsored and supported legislation (S.5294-B) requiring hospitals to establish a violence prevention program and conduct an annual safety and security assessment for the purpose of protecting healthcare workers, patients, families and visitors. The bill was signed into law by the governor.

 

SUNY Upstate’s “Respect and Heal Conference” brough together hospital staff members and health system leaders from across Upstate New York and was an important forum for dialogue around workplace safety, healing environments and policy solutions to support frontline caregivers. Sen. Griffo was invited to participate due to his leadership, commitment to and ongoing advocacy for better protection for those working or volunteering in medical fields.

 

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