(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) — Representative Timothy Hill (R-Blountville) today wrote a letter to Washington State Senator Maureen Walsh in support of Tennessee nurses after she made comments about nurses in rural areas likely “playing cards” instead of working all day. In addition to the letter, Representative Hill gifted Senator Walsh a pack of playing cards.
According to media reports, the Washington State Senate considered a bill that would provide nurses with uninterrupted meal and rest periods. During discussion on the bill, State Senator Maureen Walsh suggested “that nurses in smaller hospitals ‘probably play cards for a considerable amount of the day.’”
“I’m appalled that a member of a state legislature would disregard nurses who work hard each day to ensure their patients receive the best quality of care possible,” said Representative Hill. “In Tennessee, we love and support our nurses, and we are thankful for their sacrifices, and the many tireless hours they give, often without thanks, to try and heal the sick, and care for our communities. My colleagues and I are proud to stand with our 147,000 nurses across Tennessee.”
Timothy Hill is Chairman of the House Commerce Committee. He is also a member of the House Calendar & Rules Committee, as well as the Business, Utilities, Banking & Investments, and Life & Health Insurance Subcommittees. Hill represents Tennessee House District 3, which includes Johnson, and part of Carter and Sullivan Counties. Hill can be reached by email at: Rep.Timothy.Hill@capitol.tn.
Copy of Letter to Washington State Senator Walsh
Dear Senator Walsh,
On behalf of many Tennesseans and the Republican House members signed below, we wanted to express our disapproval and outrage over your misguided comments regarding nurses.
In Tennessee, we have roughly 147,000 nurses. They work tirelessly to take care of their families, friends, and patients. Many of them don’t get breaks, and when they do, the time is often rushed, as the call of duty does not wait for rest.
These beloved women and men are well-known to us. They may be our neighbors, or our sisters, or friends from school, or the tireless servant tending to a loved one on an overcrowded ward.
In Tennessee, we love and support our nurses, and we are thankful for their sacrifices, and the many tireless hours they give, often without thanks, to try and heal the sick, and care for our communities.
Please find enclosed a deck of playing cards. While you are on break or relaxing using this gift, please think of the many Tennessee Nurses who don’t have the time to play because they are working extra hours to care for our people.
