Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB4524

Introduced
6/12/24  

Caption

Conscience Protection Act of 2024

Impact

The proposed legislation has significant implications for state laws and health care operations nationwide. By reinforcing existing federal conscience protections, it bolsters health care providers' rights to refuse participation in abortions without fear of losing federal funds or facing legal repercussions. The bill emphasizes that states should align their operation of conscience rights without facing retaliatory actions from the federal government, thereby enhancing the legal framework protecting health care entities' moral decisions.

Summary

SB4524, known as the Conscience Protection Act of 2024, aims to amend the Public Health Service Act to prohibit discrimination against health care entities that refuse to participate in abortion-related services. The bill asserts that no health care entity should be coerced into compromising their religious, moral, or ethical convictions under penalty of retaliation or discrimination. It stipulates that any entity receiving federal financial assistance, including states and local governments, cannot enforce penalties against health care providers who choose not to provide abortion services or coverage.

Contention

Notably, reactions to SB4524 have been polarized. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary safeguard for religious liberties and conscience rights in the heavily polarized debate surrounding abortion. They cite instances where health care providers were penalized for adhering to their beliefs. Conversely, opponents warn that the bill could lead to reduced access to essential medical services for women, particularly in areas where abortion services are already limited, thus presenting a potential conflict between health care access and the enforcement of conscience protections.

Companion Bills

US HB8857

Same As Conscience Protection Act of 2024

Similar Bills

US SB2797

Protecting Conscience in Our Health Care Act

US HB2226

Let Pregnancy Centers Serve Act of 2025

US SR424

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the United States Government engage the Government of India to seek a swift end to the persecution of, and violence against, religious minorities and human rights defenders in India and a reversal of government policies that discriminate against Muslims and Christians on the basis of their respective faiths.

US HCR81

Recognizing international days of peace, coexistence, and cooperation.

US SR569

A resolution recognizing religious freedom as a fundamental right, expressing support for international religious freedom as a cornerstone of United States foreign policy, and expressing concern over increased threats to and attacks on religious freedom around the world.

US SR74

A resolution condemning the Government of Iran's state-sponsored persecution of the Baha'i minority and its continued violation of the International Covenants on Human Rights.

US SB614

A bill to designate the area of Sumner Row between 16th Street and Northwest and L Street Northwest in Washington, District of Columbia, as "Alexi Navalny Way".

US SB3804

A bill to designate the area of Sumner Row between 16th Street Northwest and L Street Northwest in Washington, District of Columbia, as "Alexi Navalny Way".