Senate Passes Bill to Enhance Safety at Bassett Healthcare

ALBANY, 06/14/17 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I/Ref- Oneonta) today announced senate approval of a bill he is sponsoring granting peace officer status to officers and members of the Bassett Healthcare Network security force.  Senator Seward’s bill (S.1662) was the result of a request from Bassett Healthcare and has the support of local, county, and state law enforcement agencies.

“Patients, medical personnel, and visitors should always expect to be safe when at a hospital or healthcare facility,” said Senator Seward.  “Empowering trained security individuals with limited authority will enhance safety at all of Bassett Healthcare’s facilities, many of which are in remote locations encumbered by lengthy law enforcement response times.”

The legislation provides Bassett’s security personnel with the ability to respond fully and appropriately in the event of an emergency.  Such emergencies may include unauthorized individuals seeking narcotics, disruptive actions by people experiencing behavioral health issues, and individuals threatening to harm others. 

As designated peace officers, Bassett’s security staff will be given certain powers only while on hospital and clinic grounds or immediately adjacent properties.  Among the powers stipulated: issue appearance tickets; take into custody an individual who appears to be mentally ill and a threat; carry out warrantless searches; make warrantless arrests.  Individuals must also complete specialized peace officer training.

“The effects of this legislation will go unnoticed by the general public, but in fact, it will provide an extra layer of safety and protection for everyone who walks through the doors of a Bassett Healthcare facility,” Seward concluded.  

In recent years, several other healthcare facilities in New York State including Kaleida Health, Strong Memorial Hospital, and Saratoga Hospital have been granted peace officer status for their security officers.

The senate approved this legislation in 2016, but the assembly failed to take action.

Companion legislation (A.4468) sponsored by Assemblyman Bill Magee is pending in the state assembly.

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