Senate Republicans Pass Werner Legislation Strengthening Protectionsfor Health Care Workers Exposed to Radiation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, March 5, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Senate Republicans are taking action to better protect Arizona health care workers, passing a package of legislation sponsored by Senate Health & Human Services Committee Chair Carine Werner to reduce long-term radiation exposure for doctors, nurses, and medical staff working in hospital procedure rooms that rely on real-time X-ray imaging.
The bipartisan bills focus on improving safety in cardiac catheterization labs where medical professionals may be exposed to low doses of radiation repeatedly over years of performing life-saving procedures.
SB 1118 helps rural hospitals upgrade safety equipment by establishing a state grant program to assist with the cost of purchasing and installing modern radiation protection systems. The funding ensures smaller facilities can adopt the same advanced safety technology available in larger hospitals, helping protect workers regardless of geography or hospital budget.
SB 1120 requires hospitals performing cardiac catheterization procedures using real-time X-ray imaging to install radiation protection systems in at least half of applicable procedure rooms by 2027. These systems shield medical staff from scatter radiation while tracking exposure levels in real time, providing stronger and more consistent protection during procedures performed daily across Arizona hospitals.
SB 1121 updates workplace safety standards by allowing medical professionals to rely on advanced radiation protection systems instead of being required to wear heavy lead aprons when those systems are properly in use. Staff may still choose to wear protective gear, while real-time monitoring ensures radiation exposure continues to be measured throughout each procedure.
"Health care workers dedicate their lives to caring for others, and they should not have to sacrifice their own long-term health in the process," said Senator Werner. "These bills use proven technology to reduce radiation exposure, improve workplace safety, and help hospitals protect the people who make patient care possible."
Long-term occupational radiation exposure has been associated with an increased risk of cancer, brain tumors, cataracts, thyroid disorders, reproductive complications, and orthopedic injuries caused by years of wearing heavy protective equipment. This legislation modernizes safety standards using technology already available in today's medical settings while allowing patient care to continue without disruption. The bills are advancing to the House for further consideration.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus