This bill establishes the right of health care providers to conscientiously object to participating in abortion, sterilization, or artificial contraception services. It mandates that health care institutions prominently display a notice informing providers of their rights and prohibits any form of discrimination against providers who exercise this right. The bill outlines definitions for key terms such as "abortion," "artificial contraception," and "conscientiously object," and it specifies that health care providers cannot be held liable for refusing to participate in these services based on their religious, moral, or ethical convictions.
Additionally, the bill introduces civil remedies for violations, allowing affected health care providers to pursue damages, including a minimum recovery of $10,000 for each violation, and the possibility of injunctive relief. It imposes civil fines on health care institutions that fail to comply with the notice requirement. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and aims to protect the rights of conscience for medical professionals while ensuring that patients have access to quality health care.