California

California Emergency Workers, Doctors Gain Extra Protection Under New Law

The new law increases penalties for assault and battery against emergency room workers.
California Emergency Workers, Doctors Gain Extra Protection Under New Law
An emergency sign directs patients and staff to the emergency room at the Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Center in San Diego, Calif., on April 17, 2017. Mike Blake/Reuters
Jill McLaughlin
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Anyone convicted of assaulting emergency room nurses and doctors in California will face jail time and heavy fines starting Jan. 1, 2025, when a new law protecting the workers goes into effect.

The California Medical Association created Assembly Bill (AB) 977, which was shepherded through the Legislature by former Assemblyman Freddie Rodriguez of Chino.
Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
Author
Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.