Whistleblower Protections for Nurses Passed in Nebraska

A bill that would grant whistleblower protections for nurses in Nebraska has won final approval from lawmakers.

Senators passed the bill Thursday with a 45-0 vote.

The issue surfaced last year after two Nebraska nurses complained that the Department of Health and Human Services disclosed their names to supervisors after they had lodged complaints alleging unethical behavior.

The bill by Sen. Brett Lindstrom of Omaha would ban retaliation against nurses who file complaints with the state. It also would guarantee confidentiality for the nurse even if the allegations later become a matter of public record.

The bill was backed by the Nebraska Nurses Association and the Nebraska Medical Association. It now goes to Gov. Pete Ricketts.

The bill is LB750.