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Bill

S 8339

Provides an exception to hospital visitation rules for members of the clergy

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Leroy Comrie

Bill S 8339 allows clergy to visit hospitalized patients anytime, ensuring spiritual support during critical times, enhancing emotional well-being and patient rights.

REFERRED TO RULES
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Bill Summary · S 8339

Summary of Bill S 8339

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: S 8339
  • Title: Provides an exception to hospital visitation rules for members of the clergy
  • Status: Referred to Rules
  • Introduced On: June 03, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 8339 is to amend existing hospital visitation rules to allow members of the clergy greater access to patients in healthcare facilities. This bill aims to ensure that individuals receiving medical care can receive spiritual support from their religious leaders, particularly during critical times such as illness or end-of-life situations.

Key Provisions

  • Visitation Exception: The bill proposes an exception to current hospital visitation policies, allowing clergy members to visit patients regardless of the hospital's standard visitation hours or restrictions.
  • Definition of Clergy: The bill defines "members of the clergy" to include individuals recognized by religious organizations as authorized to provide spiritual care and support.
  • Patient Rights: The legislation emphasizes the rights of patients to receive spiritual care, thereby enhancing their emotional and psychological well-being during hospital stays.

Affected Parties

  • Patients: Individuals hospitalized who wish to receive visits from their clergy for spiritual support.
  • Clergy Members: Religious leaders who provide spiritual care and guidance to patients in healthcare settings.
  • Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and other medical institutions that will need to adjust their visitation policies to comply with the new provisions.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of June 03, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Rules Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation:
    • A 6809: A prior-session bill that may have addressed similar issues related to hospital visitation.
    • A 7200: A companion bill that may provide additional context or provisions related to the visitation rights of clergy.

Conclusion

Bill S 8339 seeks to enhance the spiritual care available to patients in hospitals by allowing clergy members to visit without the constraints of standard visitation rules. This legislation reflects a commitment to the holistic care of patients, recognizing the importance of spiritual support in healthcare settings. The bill is currently under review by the Rules Committee, and its progress will be monitored as it moves through the legislative process.

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

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