Va. (WSET) — Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger on Thursday signed legislation prohibiting firearms and other dangerous weapons in medical facilities that provide mental health and developmental services, saying the measure will help protect patients, visitors and healthcare workers from workplace violence.
Spanberger signed House Bill 229 and Senate Bill 173 during a ceremony at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital alongside lawmakers, healthcare professionals and local officials. The legislation was sponsored by Del. Phil Hernandez and Sen. Angelia Williams Graves.
The new law comes amid growing concerns about violence in healthcare settings. According to data from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, healthcare workers are four to five times more likely to experience workplace violence than workers in other industries. The administration also noted that as many as 76 percent of healthcare workers report experiencing violence on the job, while one-third report physical violence.
“As a former federal law enforcement officer, I understand the importance of keeping our communities safe — particularly in places where people are most vulnerable,” Spanberger said during the signing ceremony. “Whether you’re recovering from surgery, visiting a family member, or one of the hardworking doctors and nurses who care for our loved ones, you deserve to do so without fear.”
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The governor said hospitals that provide mental health and developmental services must remain environments focused on care and stability.
Williams Graves, who sponsored the Senate version of the legislation, said the measure will help ensure hospitals remain safe spaces for patients and staff.
“Hospitals are places of peace, respite, and renewal,” she said. “They should be safe from weapons of all kinds.”
Hernandez, who sponsored the House bill, said the legislation represents years of work aimed at improving safety for frontline healthcare workers.
“After three years of working on this legislation, Virginia is finally telling our frontline healthcare workers what they’ve always deserved to hear: Your workplace will be safe,” Hernandez said.
The law builds on Gov. Spanberger’s bipartisan work to support Virginia law enforcement officers, strengthen the security of Virginia communities and ensure schools have the resources to keep students safe in and out of the classroom.
The administration has also launched a series of Regional Readiness Summits across Virginia, bringing together law enforcement, fire and emergency management leaders to coordinate planning for large-scale emergencies and crisis response efforts.
The weapons prohibition in certain medical facilities takes effect under the timetable established by the legislation.