This bill seeks to enhance protections for patients and providers involved in reproductive health and gender-affirming care in New Jersey, particularly in response to restrictive legal changes in other states. It establishes the right for residents and visitors to access these services safely and defines key terms such as "legally protected health care activity" and "gender-affirming health care services." The bill amends existing laws to ensure that health care providers are not penalized for offering services that are legal in New Jersey, even if they are illegal elsewhere, and prohibits the use of state resources to assist in investigations or legal actions from other states that impose penalties for engaging in these activities.

Additionally, the legislation introduces new legal provisions that classify interference with reproductive or gender-affirming health services as a crime, encompassing actions like inflicting bodily harm, obstructing access, and unauthorized recording. It allows for civil actions against offenders, including compensatory damages and injunctive relief, and empowers law enforcement to disperse gatherings that obstruct access to health care facilities. The bill also clarifies that a fertilized egg, embryo, or fetus does not have independent rights under state law, repeals outdated statutes related to abortion, and mandates the adoption of necessary regulations by health authorities. Overall, the bill aims to safeguard reproductive freedoms and health care choices while establishing clear penalties for those who interfere with access to these essential services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:1-22, 2A:160-14.1, 2A:84A-22.18, 2A:84A-22.19, 10:7-2, 26:6B-10