The Nurse Overtime and Patient Safety Act of 2026 is designed to enhance patient safety and protect nurses by limiting mandatory overtime in healthcare facilities that receive Medicare payments. Recognizing the critical role of adequate rest for nurses in delivering safe and effective patient care, the legislation establishes clear guidelines regarding working hours. The act prohibits healthcare providers from requiring nurses to work beyond their scheduled shifts, more than 48 hours in a week, or more than 12 consecutive hours in a day.