Substitute House Bill No. 7135 seeks to strengthen the provision of reproductive and gender-affirming health care services in Connecticut by introducing new definitions and protections for both patients and health care providers. The bill defines "reproductive health care services" to include assisted reproduction and "gender-affirming health care services" to encompass medical care for gender dysphoria and gender incongruence. It repeals existing definitions and allows individuals facing legal judgments in other states regarding these services to recover damages, regardless of their location during service provision. Additionally, the bill enhances patient confidentiality by prohibiting the disclosure of related communications without explicit consent and requires that any subpoenas for patient information be reported to the Attorney General's office.

The legislation also includes significant amendments to eligibility and disciplinary actions for health care providers, ensuring that the Department of Public Health cannot deny permits or licenses based on pending disciplinary actions from other jurisdictions if they pertain solely to reproductive or gender-affirming health care services compliant with state laws. It prohibits adverse actions against providers based on their involvement in these services, provided they meet legal and professional standards. The bill further clarifies that gender-affirming health care does not include conversion therapy for minors and mandates that covered entities notify the Attorney General upon receiving subpoenas related to patient information. Overall, the bill aims to create a supportive legal environment for individuals seeking or providing essential health care services in Connecticut, with an effective date of July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 52-571m, 52-146w, 20-579a, 52-155a, 54-155a
JUD Joint Favorable Substitute: 52-571m, 52-146w, 20-579a, 52-155a, 54-155a
File No. 769: 52-571m, 52-146w, 20-579a, 52-155a, 54-155a