SPRINGFIELD — A new bill aiming to improve patient safety and provide fairer treatment for nurse agencies has passed the Senate Labor Committee, thanks to State Senator Robert Peters. 

“This measure is about protecting both patients and nurse agencies alike,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Right now, a small mistake is treated the same way as a serious violation, which isn’t fair to agencies who comply with state law. This bill will allow penalties to be more appropriately matched to the severity of the violation.”  

The Nursing Agency Licensing Act sets guidelines to ensure nurse agencies meet certain operational standards and holds them responsible for the actions of the nurses they dispatch to health care facilities. Currently, Illinois law imposes a flat $10,000 fine for every violation of NALA, only targeting licensees or applicants. These guidelines do not account for the severity of the violation, meaning minor mistakes can result in the same financial punishment as more serious issues.

Under Peters’ measure, the scope of accountability will be expanded, holding all violators accountable and making penalties more proportional to the violation. This will improve patient safety and ensure nurse agencies can operate effectively without fear of disproportionate fines, creating a fairer system that is better equipped to protect the public and the health care professionals who serve them.

“These changes will create a system that makes enforcement more consistent and fair for everyone, ensuring both patients and nurse agencies are treated justly,” said Peters. “By adjusting penalties situationally, we can better protect public health while supporting agencies working to meet high standards of care.”

Senate Bill 67 passed the Senate Labor Committee Tuesday and heads to the full Senate for further consideration.