The proposed bill, known as the "Conscientious Right to Refuse Act," aims to protect individuals who refuse certain medical interventions, such as vaccinations and gene editing technologies, based on their personal beliefs. It prohibits discrimination by employers, healthcare entities, schools, and other individuals against those who refuse these medical interventions for reasons of conscience. Specific discriminatory actions that are prohibited include adverse employment actions, denial of goods or services, and segregation from others. The bill also establishes a civil cause of action for individuals who suffer harm due to such discrimination, allowing them to seek actual damages, injunctive relief, and attorney fees.

Additionally, the bill revokes the authority of the Secretary of Health and Environment to mandate isolation or quarantine and imposes penalties for violations of such orders. It repeals existing statutes K.S.A. 65-126, 65-127, 65-129, and 65-129c, which may have previously governed public health measures related to isolation and quarantine. The act is set to take effect upon its publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 74-3201b, 65-126, 65-127, 65-129, 65-129c