Bill 119 HR 2226, also known as the Conscience Protection Act of 2021, aims to amend the Public Health Service Act to prevent discrimination against entities that do not participate in abortion procedures. The bill seeks to strengthen the implementation and enforcement of federal conscience laws, which protect healthcare providers and entities from being forced to participate in or provide coverage for abortions if it goes against their religious or moral beliefs.
The bill specifically prohibits any federal, state, or local government entity from discriminating against healthcare providers or entities that refuse to participate in abortion services. It also establishes a private right of action for individuals or entities that believe their conscience rights have been violated, allowing them to seek legal recourse.
Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to annually certify compliance with federal conscience laws and to investigate and address any complaints of discrimination. It also establishes a Conscience and Religious Freedom Division within the Office for Civil Rights to oversee enforcement of these laws.
Overall, Bill 119 HR 2226 aims to protect the conscience rights of healthcare providers and entities who object to participating in abortion procedures, ensuring that they are not discriminated against for their beliefs.