Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

Kansas House Bill HB2023

Introduced
1/11/23  
Refer
1/11/23  
Report Pass
2/6/23  
Refer
2/8/23  
Report Pass
2/15/23  
Engrossed
3/1/23  
Refer
3/2/23  

Caption

Creating the crime of interference with the conduct of a healthcare facility, providing criminal penalties for violation thereof and increasing the criminal penalties for battery of a healthcare provider.

Impact

The passage of HB 2023 will amend existing criminal laws to define certain actions as criminal offenses when directed at healthcare providers and their work environments. This change is intended to provide clearer legal recourse for those who face threats or attacks within healthcare settings. By increasing criminal penalties for offenses like battery against healthcare providers, the bill seeks to deter potential aggressors and promote a safer working environment for medical professionals. Additionally, this legislation may lead to increased reporting of incidents, as the legal protections become more robust.

Summary

House Bill 2023 aims to enhance the protection of healthcare facilities and professionals by creating a specific crime of interference with the conduct of a healthcare facility. The bill establishes criminal penalties for individuals who violate this provision, reinforcing the legal framework intended to protect healthcare providers from violence and disruption while they perform their duties. This legislative move responds to growing concerns about assaults and aggressive behavior towards healthcare personnel, particularly in high-stress healthcare environments.

Contention

While supporters argue that the bill is a necessary response to the alarming trend of violence against healthcare workers, critics may voice concerns regarding the potential for overreach in defining what constitutes interference. There could be fears that the bill might lead to situations where patients facing emotional distress could be unfairly targeted under this new law. Balancing the need for safety with the rights of individuals receiving care is a crucial point of contention in the legislative discussions surrounding HB 2023. This potential conflict highlights the challenges of enacting laws that adequately protect providers without undermining the quality of care and interaction patients receive.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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