STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS31418 / H0672
The freedom to live and work consistent with one's conscience is fundamental to our society. Nowhere is that
more important than in health care, where doctors and nurses must be able to follow the Hippocratic Oath to "Do
No Harm." The purpose of this legislation is to recognize and protect the rights of conscience for health care
professionals and health care entities when they are asked to provide medical services which go against their
conscience. There are provisions to prevent discrimination or retaliation, and the legislation provides for a civil
action for damages. Our state deals with physician and nursing shortages, and we should not be pushing people
out of the practice of medicine and limiting access to care because there are particular medical procedures that
they cannot it good faith provide. When we protect rights of conscience for health care professionals and health
care institutions, we are really protecting the quality of care that will be available to our families for years to
come.
FISCAL NOTE
This legislation causes no additional expenditures of funds at the state or local levels of government, nor does
it cause an increase or decrease in revenue for state or local governments.
Contact:
Representative Tony Wisniewski
(208) 332-1000
Senator Carl Bjerke
(208) 332-1000
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note Bill SOP/FN INTRODUCED: 02/29/2024, 7:56 AM


Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 18-611