Bill > SB132

This bill creates new legal protections for health care professionals' rights of conscience, allowing them to decline participation in medical services that conflict with their religious, moral, or ethical principles without facing professional repercussions. The bill defines key terms like "health care professional" broadly to include doctors, nurses, technicians, and students, and establishes that these professionals cannot be discriminated against, reprimanded, or have their licenses revoked for refusing to participate in a health care service that violates their conscience. Importantly, the bill maintains requirements for emergency medical treatment and evidence collection in sexual assault cases, ensuring that conscientious objection does not override critical medical and legal obligations. The legislation provides a mechanism for health care professionals to report potential violations and grants individuals who are harmed by violations of the act the right to pursue civil action, including seeking damages, attorney's fees, and potential reinstatement of professional credentials. Framed as the "Health Care Heroes Recruitment and Retention Act," the bill is structured as an emergency measure, emphasizing Kentucky's stated goal of supporting its health care workforce by protecting their individual conscience rights.