The end to Mandatory Overtime for Nurses is finally here! 

The new law that restricts employers from requiring nurses to work beyond their normal schedule went into effect on July 1, 2009. After that date, only in limited circumstances (unanticipated and unforeseen staffing shortages, or medical or severe weather emergencies) can nurses be kept at work without their consent. (see earlier PEF memo on mandatory overtime) The following data pertaining to mandatory overtime has been provided for your information.

The NYS Department of Labor is in the process of issuing Emergency Regulations, until then DOL has posted Frequently Asked Questions and other MOT information on their web-site; which you can access at MOT FAQ. (http://labor.state.ny.us/workerprotection/laborstandards/workers_rights/Mandatory_OT_home.shtm)

DOL has also created a process for filing complaints to alert them of violations. Complaint forms can be accessed here: DOL Complaint Form. If a nurse files a complaint directly with DOL (either electronically or by mail) please provide a provide a copy via email to PEF Nurse Organizer (nwolff@pef.org), or fax a copy to 518-785-1814, or mail to PEF Nurse Organizer, PO Box 12414, Albany, NY 12212-2414.

If you or your colleagues believe that management has violated the prohibition on mandatory overtime, or if you feel you were unfairly coerced to “volunteer” to work beyond your regular schedule, contact your local steward, regional PEF Office, or PEF Headquarters at 1-800-342-4306, ext. 227.