Bill > SB72

This bill, titled the Health Care Heroes Recruitment and Retention Act, establishes protections for healthcare professionals and institutions in Kentucky based on their "conscience," which is defined as sincerely held religious, moral, or ethical principles. It explicitly states that these protections do not override federal laws requiring emergency medical treatment or the collection of evidence in sexual assault cases. The bill grants healthcare professionals and institutions the right to refuse participation in any healthcare service that violates their conscience, and exempts them from liability for exercising this right. It also prohibits discrimination, including adverse actions or threats, by employers, licensing authorities, or other entities against those who decline to participate in services based on conscience. Furthermore, hiring and licensing authorities are prohibited from reprimanding or taking disciplinary action against healthcare professionals for exercising these rights or for reporting potential violations, and they must provide professionals with notice of any complaints received. The bill also creates a civil cause of action for individuals injured by violations, allowing them to seek damages and other relief. An emergency clause is included, stating the act takes effect immediately due to a declared interest in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals by protecting their rights of conscience.

Health and Social Services

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/26RS/sb72.html