Statement of Debbie White, RN and HPAE President regarding Governor Murphy signing S2712 and S2785 to provide protection for residents and workers in Long Term Care facilities

The COVID-19 pandemic brought into sharp focus the challenges that certified nursing assistants often face in long term care facilities in meeting the needs of large numbers of residents.  This new law is a testament to the dedicated fight by our labor allies and other advocates for the elderly, to address these long-standing staffing issues. We also want to thank our elected leaders, especially Gov. Phil Murphy, Senate President Stephen Sweeney and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, for this much needed law that will protect both patients and healthcare workers alike. It is an important step forward in addressing issues of staffing, transparency and accountability in our healthcare system.