Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB940

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/3/23
• Refer: 10/3/23

Caption

In public safety, establishing the Reproductive Health Services Address Confidentiality Program; and imposing penalties.

Impact

The introduction of SB940 is set to significantly affect state laws regarding the confidentiality of personal information related to reproductive health. By allowing individuals to maintain substitute addresses, the bill offers enhanced protective measures for those at risk of violence. This could lead to increased participation in reproductive health services as individuals feel safer disclosing their information without fear of exposure.

Summary

Senate Bill 940 establishes the Reproductive Health Services Address Confidentiality Program in Pennsylvania aimed at protecting the addresses of individuals involved in reproductive health services. The program provides a means for eligible individuals, including patients and service providers fearing violence, to certify their participation and receive a substitute address for receiving legal documents and mail. Law enforcement and government entities may request actual addresses under strict conditions, ensuring a balance between public safety and individual privacy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB940 is generally positive among proponents who advocate for the safety of vulnerable populations, particularly those facing domestic violence or threats related to reproductive health decisions. However, there may be some contention among privacy advocates and law enforcement agencies concerned about the implications of such confidentiality measures on their operational capabilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB940 center on the waiver process for disclosing actual addresses, which requires a rigorous justification. Critics may argue that these requirements could hinder legitimate law enforcement actions. Additionally, concerns about the potential for abuse of the waiver process by individuals seeking information for nefarious purposes exist, leading to debates on how to best balance personal safety with public accountability.