The proposed bill, known as the Medical Ethics Defense Act, establishes a framework to protect the rights of medical practitioners, healthcare institutions, and payers regarding their conscience-based objections to participating in certain medical procedures or services. It defines key terms such as "conscience," "discrimination," and "medical procedure or service," and grants these entities the right to refuse participation in procedures that conflict with their ethical, moral, or religious beliefs. The bill also includes provisions to prevent discrimination against those who exercise their right of conscience, ensuring that they cannot face adverse actions such as termination or demotion for their decisions. Additionally, it mandates that healthcare practitioners must provide written consent before being assigned to perform or participate in abortions.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the immunities from civil, criminal, or administrative liability for those who choose not to participate in procedures that violate their conscience. It allows for civil actions to be brought against violations of the act, with provisions for recovering damages and attorney fees. The legislation also emphasizes the importance of emergency medical treatment, ensuring that the right of conscience does not impede the provision of necessary care. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, and includes a severability clause to maintain the validity of the remaining provisions should any part of the act be deemed invalid or unenforceable.