Connecticut Senate Bill SB00218

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/18
• Refer: 2/22/18

Caption

An Act Prohibiting Involuntary Sterilization Of Persons With Disabilities.

Impact

The bill will make significant changes to the Connecticut General Statutes relating to the sterilization of individuals within state institutions. It will repeal several existing laws that previously allowed for sterilization under certain conditions, thereby strengthening the requirements for informed consent. Notably, a probate court must evaluate and confirm that the individual is capable of giving informed consent before any action can be taken, thus providing an additional layer of protection. The act is intended to reaffirm the state's commitment to upholding human rights and dignity for all individuals, especially those with disabilities.

Summary

SB00218, titled 'An Act Prohibiting Involuntary Sterilization Of Persons With Disabilities', aims to amend existing statutes to ensure that sterilization procedures are only conducted with the informed consent of individuals. This act addresses the historical context where involuntary sterilization of persons with disabilities has occurred, highlighting the need for legal safeguards to protect vulnerable populations from such practices. The bill proposes that anyone undergoing sterilization must be at least eighteen years old and provide written consent, reinforcing the legal right to personal autonomy and bodily integrity.

Contention

As with any sensitive topic such as involuntary sterilization, the bill has faced various points of contention. Proponents argue that it is essential to prevent any form of coercion exerted upon individuals with disabilities regarding their reproductive rights. Critics may express concerns about the practicality of ensuring informed consent in institutional settings or argue about the implications for medical practices. However, the overarching sentiment supports the eradication of involuntary sterilization, viewing the bill as a progressive step towards enhancing legal protection for persons with disabilities in Connecticut.