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HB 2375

Relating to permitting persons to refuse to participate in a irreversible transition surgery

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Adam Burkhammer and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 2375 allows healthcare providers to refuse participation in irreversible gender reassignment surgeries, impacting patient access and medical ethics discussions.

To House Health Care Regulations
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Bill Summary · HB 2375

Summary of House Bill 2375

Bill Number: HB 2375
Title: Relating to permitting persons to refuse to participate in irreversible transition surgery
Status: To House Health Care Regulations
Introduced: February 13, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Health

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2375 aims to establish legal protections for physicians and other individuals who may be asked to perform or assist in irreversible gender reassignment surgeries. The bill seeks to ensure that no person can be compelled to participate in such procedures against their will, whether for medical, ethical, or personal reasons.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces a new article to the Code of West Virginia, specifically designated as §16-5EE-1, which includes the following key provisions:

  • Definition of Terms:

    • "Irreversible gender reassignment surgery" is defined as per §30-3-20 of the West Virginia Code.
    • "Physician" refers to individuals licensed to practice allopathic or osteopathic medicine in West Virginia.

  • Prohibition of Compulsion:

    • The bill explicitly states that no physician or individual shall be required to perform or assist in the performance of irreversible gender reassignment surgery if they choose not to do so for any reason.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

  • Physicians and Medical Professionals: The bill directly impacts healthcare providers by granting them the right to refuse participation in specific surgical procedures without facing legal or professional repercussions.

  • Patients Seeking Surgery: While the bill protects healthcare providers, it may also affect patients seeking irreversible gender reassignment surgeries, as it could limit the number of available practitioners willing to perform these procedures.

Broader Implications

The introduction of this bill may contribute to ongoing discussions and debates surrounding medical ethics, patient rights, and the rights of healthcare providers in relation to gender identity and transition-related healthcare.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 13, 2025: Bill filed for introduction and referred to the House Health and Human Resources Committee.
  • February 14, 2025: Bill sent to House Health Care Regulations for further consideration.

Conclusion

House Bill 2375 seeks to provide legal protections for healthcare providers regarding their participation in irreversible gender reassignment surgeries. By allowing individuals to refuse involvement in such procedures, the bill addresses concerns related to personal and professional ethics within the medical community. The potential implications for both healthcare providers and patients highlight the need for ongoing dialogue in the realm of gender-affirming healthcare.

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

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