Mandatory overtime is becoming an increasingly difficult problem for RNs and health care facilities. Because of inadequate RN staffing, employers have used mandatory overtime to staff facilities often as a cost saving factor. Nurses are concerned about the health effects of long term overtime and the quality of care being provided. 14 states submitted legislation that would limit the amount of overtime nurses would be required to work and would prevent employers from discriminating against or dismissing nurses who refuse overtime. MD and MN legislation also defines patient abandonment.

Legislation enacted in ME would prevent a nurse from being disciplined for refusing to work more than 12 consecutive hours except in certain circumstances and must be given 10 consecutive hours off following overtime. OR legislation prevents a nurse from being required to work more than 2 hours beyond a regularly scheduled shift or 16 hours in a 24 hour time period.