Markey Endorses Much-Debated Ballot Initiative On Nurse Staffing

U.S. Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts has come out in support of the much-debated state ballot question on nurse-staffing ratios.

Question 1 would set a minimum on nurse-to-patient ratios at hospitals and healthcare facilities if passed. Markey has said it is important to allow nurses and other medical professionals do their jobs safely. The measure is also backed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, representatives Joe Kennedy III and Michael Capuano, as well as congressional candidates Ayanna Pressley and Lori Trahan.

The measure has drawn opposition from Gov. Charlie Baker, though, who said he was convinced by a report from the state's Health Policy Commission (HPC) — an independent watchdog that keeps an eye on health costs — that said implementing the law could cost more than $900 million.

A WBUR poll from late September showed voters evenly split over the ballot measure.