NURSING CARE & QUALITY IMPROV House SponsorsRep. Mary E. Flowers 1/11/2011HouseSession Sine Die New Act Creates the Nursing Care and Quality Improvement Act. Provides that each hospital shall implement a staffing plan that (i) provides adequate, appropriate, and quality delivery of health care services, (ii) protects patient safety, and (iii) is consistent with the requirements of the Act. Sets forth the minimum direct care registered nurse-to-patient ratios required in a unit of a hospital during each shift in that unit. Sets forth development and reevaluation requirements for the staffing plan. Prohibits a hospital from discharging, discriminating against, or retaliating against (i) a nurse in any manner with respect to any aspect of employment based on the nurse's refusal of a work assignment under certain conditions or (ii) a nurse or any individual, who, in good faith, reports a violation of the Act, initiates, cooperates, or otherwise participates in an investigation or proceeding under the Act, or informs or discusses with other individuals or with representatives of hospital employees a violation or suspected violation of the Act. Sets forth penalties for violation of the Act. 1/22/2010HouseFiled with the Clerk by Rep. Mary E. Flowers 1/25/2010HouseFirst Reading 1/25/2010HouseReferred to Rules Committee 2/16/2010HouseAssigned to Human Services Committee 3/15/2010HouseRule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee 1/11/2011HouseSession Sine Die