The proposed "Medical Ethics Defense Act" aims to protect the right of conscience for health care providers, institutions, and payers in Idaho. It establishes a new chapter in Title 54 of the Idaho Code, which includes definitions, legislative findings, and provisions for civil remedies. The act asserts that no health care provider should be compelled to participate in or fund medical procedures that conflict with their ethical, moral, or religious beliefs. It also includes protections against discrimination, punishment, and retaliation for those exercising their right of conscience, as well as whistleblower protections for reporting violations of the act.

Additionally, the bill outlines free speech protections for health care providers, ensuring they cannot be sanctioned for engaging in protected speech unless it directly causes physical harm to a patient. It allows for civil actions against violations of the act, providing for injunctive relief, actual damages, and attorney's fees. The act emphasizes the importance of conscience in medical practice and seeks to secure these rights amid increasing pressures on health care professionals. An emergency clause is included, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.