The proposed bill, known as the Conscientious Right to Refuse Act, seeks to enact section 3792.09 of the Revised Code, which prohibits discrimination against individuals who refuse certain medical interventions, including vaccines and other health-related products, based on their conscience or religious beliefs. The bill defines key terms such as "business," "individual," and "health plan issuer," and outlines the entities that cannot discriminate against individuals for their refusal of medical interventions. These entities include employers, healthcare providers, and state agencies, among others. The bill also stipulates that individuals who believe they have been discriminated against can seek legal recourse through civil actions or petitions for injunctive relief.
Additionally, the bill provides protections for minors, ensuring they are not denied access to medical care based on their personal representative's refusal of vaccination for conscience reasons. It establishes a framework for individuals to pursue legal action if their rights are violated, including provisions for court costs and attorney's fees if they prevail. The bill also clarifies that businesses providing public services are immune from civil liability for outbreaks of communicable diseases believed to be preventable by vaccines, with specific exceptions noted for food service providers. Overall, the bill aims to safeguard individual rights regarding medical choices while balancing public health considerations.