wa-law.org > bill > 2023-24 > HB 2502 > Original Bill
This act may be known and cited as the protecting reproductive autonomy act.
A health care provider licensed under this title whose scope of practice includes performing sterilizations for contraceptive purposes may not require an individual who is seeking a sterilization to meet any special nonmedical qualifications, which are not imposed on individuals seeking other types of health care services. Such prohibited nonmedical qualifications include, but are not limited to, marital status and number of natural children. Such prohibited nonmedical qualifications include age, except that age may be a qualification for determining consent or applicable insurance coverage under state or federal law.
Nothing in this section prohibits requirements relating to the physical or mental condition of the individual or affects the right of the health care provider to provide medical counseling or advice as to whether or not sterilization is appropriate. A health care provider may not provide nonmedical counseling or advice as to whether sterilization is appropriate. This section does not affect existing law with respect to minors.
An individual must voluntarily give informed consent before a health care provider may perform a sterilization for contraceptive purposes.
A licensed health care provider who violates subsection (1) of this section is subject to discipline pursuant to this chapter, the uniform disciplinary act.
For purposes of this section:
"Minor" means any person under the age of 18; and
"Sterilization" means any medical procedure, treatment, or operation for the purpose of rendering an individual permanently incapable of reproducing.
Except as provided in RCW 18.130.450, the following conduct, acts, or conditions constitute unprofessional conduct for any license holder under the jurisdiction of this chapter: