United Nurses & Allied Professionals
Override the Mandatory Overtime Veto!

In spite of widespread public support, unanimous passage in the House and Senate, and compelling research on the dangers associated with mandatory overtime, Governor Carcieri has vetoed a mandatory overtime law that would prohibit hospitals from forcing nurses and nurse's aides from working beyond their scheduled shift, except in true emergencies. 

Please take a moment to send an email to your State legislators asking them to stand up for safe patient care and OVERRIDE THE GOVERNOR'S VETO.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: Override the Mandatory Overtime Veto!

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am writing to urge you to override the Governor's veto of the mandatory overtime bill, which was passed unanimously by the House and Senate.

For too many years, nurses and patients in Rhode Island have endured the hardships and risks associated with the dangerous practice of mandatory overtime.

The legislation that has passed the House and Senate would place reasonable restrictions on mandatory overtime, while allowing for exceptions in true emergencies.

Ten states across the country have already adopted similar legislation. With your continued support Rhode Island will be the 11th state to stand up for quality care.

Thank you in advance for your support of this important legislation that protects patients, health care providers and their families.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
June 29, 2007



Background Information

Mandatory Overtime: Unsafe and Unfair.

House Bill 5099, Senate Bill 29

What this bill does:

  • Prohibits hospitals from forcing nurses and nurses' aides to work overtime
  • Permits mandatory overtime in event of "unforeseen emergent circumstances", but in no case more than 12 consecutive hours
  • Prohibits discipline, discrimination, retaliation against employees who decline mandatory overtime
  • Provides for $300 fines per violation, enforced by the RI Department of Labor

Why it is time to pass this bill

  • Mandatory overtime leads to medical errors that endanger patients
  • Mandatory overtime has contributed to the nursing shortage in Rhode Island
  • Similar regulation of truck drivers, bus drivers and airline pilots has protected the public for years
  • Mandatory overtime continues to be a problem at hospitals throughout Rhode Island
  • Other states have enacted mandatory overtime legislation (Washington, Minn, NJ, Oregon, Maine)