Bill > SB447

This bill modifies Maryland law regarding emergency pregnancy-related medical conditions in hospitals. The legislation defines an "emergency pregnancy-related medical condition" as a medical situation presenting in a pregnant patient with acute symptoms severe enough that without immediate medical attention, the patient's health could be seriously jeopardized. The bill requires hospitals with emergency departments to screen and provide necessary treatment to stabilize patients with such conditions, which now explicitly includes the option to terminate a pregnancy when medically necessary to stabilize the patient. The bill prohibits hospitals from penalizing healthcare providers who refuse to transfer an unstabilized patient or who provide treatment consistent with medical standards of care. It also establishes civil penalties for hospitals that negligently violate these requirements, with fines ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 depending on the hospital's size. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for coordinating potential state and federal investigations and fines, and it references federal emergency medical treatment standards. The law will take effect on October 1, 2025, and aims to ensure comprehensive and safe medical care for pregnant patients experiencing emergency medical conditions.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0447?ys=2025RS