SB 509
Prohibiting certain medical exams on anesthetized patients
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill prohibits medical providers from performing pelvic, prostate, rectal, and breast exams on anesthetized or unconscious patients in West Virginia, with limited exceptions. It requires prior written consent from the patient, their guardian, or health care representative, or establishes a medical emergency exception. Violations carry significant penalties, including potential suspension of medical licenses and fines.
Key provisions
- Medical providers cannot perform pelvic, prostate, rectal, or breast exams on anesthetized patients.
- Prior written informed consent is required from the patient, guardian, or health care representative.
- A medical emergency exception is allowed if the exam is immediately necessary.
- Court orders may authorize the examination for evidence collection.
- Violations are classified as second-degree sexual assault.
- Penalties include license suspension and fines deposited into a state fund.
- The bill establishes an effective date upon passage.
Who is affected
- Medical providers
- Patients
- Patients' guardians
- Health care representatives
- The medical community
Notable changes
- This bill introduces a restriction on performing certain types of examinations on unconscious patients.
- It establishes a specific legal penalty for violating the prohibition, including potential license suspension.
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours