The bill amends Section 23-11-8 of the General Laws in Chapter 23-11, which pertains to sexually transmitted diseases, specifically focusing on the responsibilities of healthcare providers regarding pregnant women. It establishes that every physician, midwife, physician assistant, and nurse practitioner must obtain a blood specimen from a pregnant woman within thirty (30) days after the first professional visit and again during the third trimester. These blood specimens are to be submitted for testing.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that failure to comply with these requirements constitutes a misdemeanor, and the healthcare provider may be fined not less than ten dollars ($10.00) for each offense. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5613: 23-11-8
5613  SUB A: 23-11-8