Bill > H5295

This bill amends the Rhode Island General Laws to criminalize the knowing and intentional failure of medical professionals to provide reasonable medical care to an infant born alive. Specifically, the bill defines "born alive" as a complete expulsion from the mother at any stage of development that shows signs of life, such as breathing, a beating heart, or muscle movement. If a physician, nurse, or other licensed medical person fails to provide appropriate care to such an infant, they would be guilty of a felony, facing potential fines up to $5,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 5 years. If the infant dies as a result of this neglect, the medical professional could be charged with manslaughter. The bill includes important exceptions that allow parents or guardians to refuse medical treatment that is not medically necessary, does not have a clear potential to save the infant's life, poses significant health risks, or would only temporarily prolong the dying process when death is imminent. The legislation would take effect immediately upon passage.

Justice

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