AL HB516

Prohibits medical practitioners, dental practitioners, and nurses from asking patients about firearm ownership or presence of firearms in the home, establishing this as a violation of patient privacy.

Prohibits conditioning medical treatment or care on a patient's willingness or refusal to disclose information about firearm ownership or possession.

Prohibits entering firearm-related information into medical records or disclosing such information to third parties, whether intentionally, accidentally, or inadvertently.

Establishes civil penalties ranging from $250 for a first violation to $1,500 for a fourth violation, with possible professional license suspension at the board's discretion for the fourth violation.

Provides exceptions allowing firearm inquiries during medical emergencies (including mental health crises) and by psychotherapists, school counselors, or social workers who reasonably believe a firearm poses an imminent threat to the patient or others.