HB 1203 Summary

• Designates protected health information and mental health, medical, or substance abuse records of Department of Corrections inmates as confidential and exempt from public records disclosure, subject to Open Government Sunset Review Act repeal on October 2, 2022.

• Adds HIV testing identity and results as confidential information exempt from public disclosure, also subject to sunset review on October 2, 2022.

• Authorizes release of protected health information to specified entities including Executive Office of the Governor, courts, law enforcement, health departments, researchers, and attorneys under defined conditions requiring written requests and demonstrated need.

• Establishes detailed procedures for release to law enforcement, state attorneys, and courts for criminal investigations, crime victims, and evidence of institutional crimes, with requirements for consent, subpoenas, or court orders under federal HIPAA regulations.

• Permits deceased inmates' families and legal representatives to access protected health information upon written request with appropriate documentation verifying their authority to act on the deceased's behalf.