Virginia Senate Bill SB278

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Virginia Abortion Care & Gender-Affirming Health Care Protection Act; established, civil penalties.

Impact

The bill amends several sections of the Code of Virginia to provide explicit protections against the extradition of individuals charged with crimes related to abortion or gender-affirming care in other states. By prohibiting such legal actions unless the alleged offense constitutes a crime under Virginia law, the bill reinforces the state's stance on healthcare rights, countering potential out-of-state actions that could result in legal repercussions for individuals providing or receiving these services in Virginia. This change aims to foster a safer environment for both providers and recipients of these services.

Summary

Senate Bill 278, known as the Virginia Abortion Care & Gender-Affirming Health Care Protection Act, aims to safeguard abortion and gender-affirming healthcare services within the Commonwealth of Virginia. The bill institutes civil penalties for false claims related to the provision of healthcare services, emphasizing the state's commitment to ensuring access to these services for individuals regardless of external legal pressures. The legislation establishes that protections for individuals involved in these healthcare activities are paramount, enhancing legal defenses against prosecutions that rely on actions taken in other jurisdictions that conflict with Virginia's policies on protected health care activities.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB278 involve concerns about potential clashes with federal laws or with jurisdictions that impose stricter regulations on abortion and gender-affirming health care. Critics may argue that the bill creates legal ambiguities and that the civil penalties for false attestations could discourage individuals from seeking redress for legitimate grievances. Supporters claim the bill is a necessary measure to combat 'abusive litigation' aimed at discouraging individuals from accessing vital healthcare services, asserting that it aligns with the state's policies protecting personal autonomy in healthcare decisions.