HB31 Alabama 2014 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Becky Nordgren

Republican

Co-Sponsor

April Weaver

Session

Regular Session 2014

Title

Health care providers authorized to decline to perform services that violate their consciences, exceptions, Health Care Rights of Conscience Act

Summary

HB31 would let health care providers refuse to perform services that violate their conscience, with protections from liability and discrimination, and rules for how such refusals must be handled.

What This Bill Does

If passed, the bill allows a health care provider to decline to participate in any health care service that conflicts with their conscience, as long as they object in writing before being asked. Providers would have immunity from civil, criminal, or administrative liability for refusals, except in life-threatening emergencies where no other provider is available. The bill also makes it unlawful to discriminate against such providers and allows injunctive relief and back pay if their rights are violated. It defines “health care service” broadly (including abortion-related services and related counseling or referrals) and requires advance written notice (at least 24 hours) before objecting. In emergencies, providers must participate until another capable provider is found, and the act does not override abortion laws or apply to abortion clinics licensed by the state.

Who It Affects

• Health care providers (doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other staff) who may object in writing to participate in certain health care services and seek protection from liability and retaliation.
• Health care institutions, employers, licensing or certifying bodies, and boards, which are prohibited from discriminating against objecting providers and must enforce the act's protections.

Key Provisions

• Right to decline to participate in health care services that violate conscience, if the provider objects in writing prior to being asked.
• Immunity from civil, criminal, or administrative liability for refusals, except when not refusing would immediately endanger a patient.
• Unlawful discrimination against providers who decline to participate, with injunctive relief and back pay available for violations.
• Definition of 'health care service' to include abortion-related services and related counseling, referrals, and procedures.
• Obligations for advance written notice (object in writing at least 24 hours before the service).
• Emergency life-threatening situations require participation until another capable provider is available.
• Hospital and health care entities, and their employees, are immune from liability for damages caused by a provider’s refusal at a facility they own or control.
• The act does not override abortion laws, and it does not apply to abortion clinics licensed by the state Board of Health.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Health Care Providers