Defense of Conscience in Health Care Act

The Defense of Conscience in Health Care Act proposes to reinstate a 2019 federal rule that strengthens the ability of health care workers and institutions to opt out of providing services that violate their moral or religious beliefs. While existing federal laws already offer some conscience protections, this bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to implement specific enforcement mechanisms, such as requiring organizations that receive federal funding to certify their compliance and establishing stricter penalties for violations.

If enacted, the bill would impact the health care system by broadening the ways individual providers, such as doctors, nurses, or pharmacists, can refuse to participate in or refer patients for procedures like abortion, sterilization, or assisted suicide. It would also give the HHS Office for Civil Rights more authority to investigate complaints from workers who feel they were pressured or discriminated against for their beliefs. Supporters argue this protects the fundamental rights of medical professionals, while critics often express concern that such rules could limit patient access to legal medical services and information.