By HFT Staff

In February, Wisconsin State Legislature passed a law that would make it a felony to threaten a healthcare worker. The bill expands a 2020 law that made battery against a nurse, emergency care provider or an individual working in the emergency department a felony.  

“The committed providers and staff working in our hospitals take care of patients during the worst moments in their lives. In addition to diagnosing and treating physical ailments, these health care professionals provide emotional support to patients and their families,” says Eric Borgerding, president and CEO of the Wisconsin Hospital Association in a statement. “Unfortunately, providers and staff in our hospitals are reaching their limits. Growing threats being made against them and their families are forcing them to prioritize their personal safety over the increasing danger they face doing what they love. Sadly, healthcare workers are leaving their jobs at an alarming rate, exacerbating a workforce shortage in our state that predated today’s challenging environment. This unacceptable situation has prompted the Wisconsin Hospital Association to act on behalf of our members and the workers they employ who are so devoted to the health and safety of their communities.” 

Battery is a misdemeanor under Wisconsin law, but the new bill would make it so battery or threats against healthcare workers or their family members are class H felonies, according to the Wisconsin State Journal. Violators could face up to three years in prison, plus three years of extended supervision, up to a $10,000 fine or both.