Connecticut Senate Bill SB00472

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Providing Immunity From Civil Liability To A Physician Who Accompanies And Assists A State, Regional Or Municipal Swat Team.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would significantly alter the legal landscape for physicians involved in emergency medical assistance during tactical law enforcement operations. Physicians accompanying SWAT teams would not be held liable for any injuries that result from their actions or omissions while providing medical care. This could potentially increase the availability of medical personnel in such critical scenarios, enhancing the overall effectiveness of emergency responses during high-risk situations.

Summary

SB00472 proposes to amend chapter 925 of the general statutes to provide legal immunity to physicians who voluntarily assist state, regional, or municipal SWAT teams. The primary intention is to legally protect medical personnel who render emergency medical aid at the scene of law enforcement operations, thereby encouraging their participation in high-risk situations without the fear of civil lawsuits. This bill seeks to address potential hesitations on the part of medical professionals to provide immediate care due to concerns over liability for damages resulting from ordinary negligence while assisting in such contexts.

Contention

The bill has implications for the ethics of medical practice, particularly concerning how liability may affect the decisions made by healthcare providers in life-threatening circumstances. While proponents argue that it is necessary to protect medical professionals and ensure that medical assistance is readily available during police operations, opponents may raise concerns about the adequacy of medical oversight and accountability in situations where negligence could occur. The balance between facilitating immediate medical care and maintaining professional accountability is poised to be a central point of discussion surrounding this bill.