Maryland 2025 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB95

Introduced
1/8/24  
Introduced
1/8/25  
Refer
1/8/24  

Caption

Health Care Providers - Assisted Reproductive Treatment - Informed Consent and Fraud

Impact

The bill’s implementation is expected to have significant implications for state laws governing reproductive health and can potentially reshape the medical practices associated with assisted reproduction. By formally establishing the necessity for informed consent, HB95 increases accountability among health care providers, thereby aiming to reduce instances of fraudulent practices that could exploit patients and donors. It will change how reproductive health services are approached, reinforcing patients' and donors' autonomy over their genetic material.

Summary

House Bill 95 addresses critical issues surrounding assisted reproductive treatment by mandating informed consent from patients and donors before any reproductive material may be used. The bill explicitly prohibits a health care provider from using their own sperm or ovum for treatment without the recipient's consent. It also requires obtaining specific consent from donors for their reproductive material to be utilized in treatment. This aims to enhance transparency and ethical practice in reproductive health services and protect the rights of all parties involved.

Conclusion

Overall, while HB95 seeks to enhance ethical standards within assisted reproductive treatments and safeguard individuals' rights, it will be essential to monitor its impact on access and patient-provider relationships in reproductive health care. As the bill moves further in the legislative process, discussions around these contentions will likely influence any amendments to ensure a balance between ethical standards and practical accessibility.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB95 include the implications it may have on medical providers and the potential for civil liability. Health care providers found in violation of this law could face substantial civil damages and even criminal charges, which some medical professionals fear may lead to defensive medical practices. Opponents might argue that the stringent regulations may inadvertently restrict access to assisted reproductive services or complicate the procedures for both patients and medical practitioners.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

TX HB1753

Relating to the right to assistive reproductive technology treatments and procedures, including in vitro fertilization.

TX HB585

Relating to the right to assistive reproductive technology treatments and procedures, including in vitro fertilization.

NJ S3663

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NJ A4915

Establishes reproductive health travel advisory.

ND HB1477

Fertility health care treatment rights; and to provide a penalty.

NJ AR148

Condemns action of Republican members of United States Congress in failing to support passage of SB3612; affirms New Jersey Legislature's commitment to protecting reproductive freedom and full access to reproductive health care.

RI S0691

Requires individual and group health insurance policies that provide pregnancy-related benefits to cover medically necessary expenses for diagnosis and treatment of infertility and standard fertility-preservation services.

ND HB1282

Public employee fertility health benefits; to provide for a report to the legislative assembly; to provide for application; and to provide an expiration date.