Bill > H2011

This bill proposes to amend Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 111 by adding a new section that establishes specific requirements for informed consent before a health care provider, defined as a physician or registered nurse, can perform a circumcision on a newborn child 14 days old or younger. The bill mandates that a health care provider must furnish an "informed consent form" detailing the risks and potential benefits of circumcision, as well as a video showing the entire procedure, including preparations and post-circumcision care. The mother must then sign and return the consent form after a waiting period of at least 7 days but within 14 days of receiving it, and both parents must sign if they are married or paternity is established and the father resides with the mother, unless one parent is in active military service or incarcerated. The bill explicitly states that health care providers cannot use pressure or coercion to obtain consent, and it exempts circumcisions performed for religious purposes. The informed consent form must include specific statements about the pain, potential complications, and lack of proven medical benefits of circumcision, while also acknowledging the video viewing and the parent's right to refuse the procedure. Violations of these provisions would be considered unfair or deceptive trade practices, allowing for civil action.