Va. (WSET) \u2014 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.<\/p>\n
Spanberger signed House Bill 229<\/a> and Senate Bill 173<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n \u201cAs a former federal law enforcement officer, I understand the importance of keeping our communities safe \u2014 particularly in places where people are most vulnerable,\u201d Spanberger said during the signing ceremony. \u201cWhether you\u2019re 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.\u201d<\/p>\n