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HB 2072

Allowing healthcare workers to refuse to perform procedures related to sex reassignment or gender identity transitioning for religious or conscientious objection

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Parsons and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 2072 allows West Virginia healthcare workers to refuse gender transition procedures based on religious beliefs, protecting them from liability and disciplinary actions.

To House Health Care Regulations
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Bill Summary · HB 2072

Summary of House Bill 2072

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: HB 2072
  • Title: Allowing healthcare workers to refuse to perform procedures related to sex reassignment or gender identity transitioning for religious or conscientious objection
  • Status: To House Health Care Regulations
  • Introduced: February 12, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject: Health

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2072 aims to establish a legal framework that allows healthcare providers in West Virginia to refuse participation in medical procedures related to sex reassignment or gender identity transitioning based on their religious or conscientious beliefs. The bill seeks to protect healthcare workers from civil liability and disciplinary actions for exercising this right.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new article to the Code of West Virginia, which includes the following key provisions:

Definitions

  • Biological Sex: Defined as the biological indicators of male and female at birth, without considering an individual's gender identity.
  • Gender Transition: The process of changing one's gender identity, which may involve social, legal, or physical alterations.
  • Healthcare Provider: Broadly defined to include various entities and individuals involved in healthcare services, such as hospitals, physicians, nurses, and pharmacists.
  • Religious or Conscientious Objection: Refers to the ethical, moral, or religious beliefs that may lead a healthcare provider to refuse participation in certain procedures.

Rights of Healthcare Providers

  • Refusal to Participate: Healthcare providers may refuse to perform or assist in procedures related to sex reassignment or gender identity transitioning if it conflicts with their beliefs.
  • Protection from Liability: Providers who refuse to participate based on their objections are protected from civil liability and disciplinary actions, including adverse employment actions or loss of privileges.

Limitations

  • The bill clarifies that it does not permit the denial of essential medical treatment, visitation rights, or recognition of designated representatives for healthcare decision-making.

Legal Recourse

  • Civil Action: Healthcare providers may file civil actions for damages or injunctive relief if their rights under this article are violated.
  • Attorney General's Role: The Attorney General is authorized to enforce compliance with the provisions of this bill.

Impact

This legislation would primarily affect healthcare providers in West Virginia, allowing them to exercise their religious or conscientious beliefs without fear of repercussions. It may also impact patients seeking gender-related healthcare services, as some providers may refuse to participate in their care based on the provisions of this bill.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 12, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on Health and Human Resources, then to the Judiciary.
  • February 14, 2025: Bill sent to House Health Care Regulations.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 2072, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential implications for healthcare providers and patients in West Virginia.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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