The bill amends the Persons with Disabilities Civil Rights Act to include a new section, 302a, which prohibits health facilities from discriminating against individuals with disabilities in relation to their medical treatment. The bill outlines specific forms of discrimination, such as denying or limiting treatment based on biases about disabilities, assumptions regarding the value of life with a disability, or the perceived burden on caregivers. It also mandates that health facilities provide reasonable accommodations to ensure individuals with disabilities can fully enjoy their medical treatment and access visitation and advocacy assistance.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that while health facilities must not discriminate based on disability, they are not required to provide treatment if there is a legitimate, nondiscriminatory reason for denial, or if the individual does not consent to treatment. The language emphasizes that biases outlined in the bill cannot be used as justifications for denying treatment. The provisions apply regardless of public health emergencies, ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive equitable medical care at all times.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 37.1101, 37.1607