This bill amends existing laws regarding the collection of demographic information, specifically focusing on the sexual orientation and gender identity of minor patients in general acute care hospitals and clinical laboratories. It stipulates that these institutions shall not collect or request such data from patients under the age of 18 unless voluntarily provided by the patient or their parent or guardian. The bill emphasizes that any voluntarily provided data must be used solely for medical diagnosis and treatment purposes. Additionally, it mandates that electronic medical records and laboratory information management systems be configured to not require the selection of a minor patient's gender identity and sexual orientation in order to save or store their demographic information.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the requirements for cultural competency training for hospital staff responsible for collecting demographic data, ensuring that they are equipped to handle such sensitive information appropriately. It also includes provisions for the electronic recording of demographic data, stating that clinical laboratories must record race, ethnicity, and other relevant information while allowing for "not provided" options when necessary. The bill aims to create a more sensitive and respectful approach to collecting demographic information from minors while ensuring compliance with health data reporting standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:2H-5.36, 45:9-42.46, 45:9-42.47