SB 609
Protects the conscience rights of pharmaceutical professionals
LR Number:
3158S.02I
Last Action:
2/20/2006 - Voted Do Pass S Judiciary and Civil & Criminal Jurisprudence Committee
Journal Page:
Title:
Calendar Position:
Effective Date:
August 28, 2006

Current Bill Summary

SB 609 - This act protects the conscience rights of pharmaceutical professionals. Such pharmaceutical professionals shall not be required to perform, assist, recommend, refer for, or participate in any service involving a particular drug or device that they have a good faith belief is used for abortions. In these instances, the pharmaceutical professional shall be immune from civil or criminal liability and will not have their license suspended or revoked.

Employers cannot refuse to hire, discriminate against, segregate, or terminate a pharmaceutical professional because of their opposition to any service involving a particular drug or device that they have a good faith belief is used for abortions. Colleges and teaching hospitals are also prohibited from discriminating against any person who refuses to participate in any service or training which involves a particular drug that they have a good faith belief is used for abortions. In addition, they are prohibited from requiring a student or teacher to pay fees to fund these activities.

A party injured by any of the acts described in Sections 338.603 to 338.606 can institute a civil action to recover treble damages, court costs, and reasonable attorney's fees.

This act is similar to SB 1119 (2004).

ADRIANE CROUSE

Amendments