Bill > HB606

This bill establishes a legal framework protecting patients aged 18 and older who require medical treatments that may result in sterilization. Specifically, the bill prohibits physicians from denying medically advisable treatments based on a patient's age, number of children, marital status, or fertility goals. A physician can require the patient to sign an informed consent and a waiver of damages related to sterilization. The bill defines "medical condition" broadly, including diseases, disorders, genetic predispositions, or medical histories that affect reproductive health or make reproduction inadvisable. Specific treatments covered include procedures like hysterectomy, oophorectomy, and other reproductive surgeries, as well as medications that might impact fertility. Notably, gender dysphoria is explicitly excluded as a qualifying medical condition. If a patient is denied such treatment, they can seek review by the board of medicine within three years of the denial. The bill also empowers the board of medicine to review complaints and potentially take disciplinary action against physicians who violate these provisions. Importantly, patients who proceed with treatment after informed consent cannot pursue civil action for sterilization, though this does not protect against purposeful, reckless, or negligent medical acts. The law will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Health and Social Services

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=0879&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB606