UT SB0174

Health care providers may refuse to participate in or provide health care services that violate their religious beliefs or conscience, including abortion, pregnancy termination, gender transition, contraception, artificial insemination, and disposal of pregnancy remains

Providers exercising this right are protected from civil, criminal, and administrative liability, and employers are prohibited from taking adverse actions such as termination, demotion, or denial of licensure against them

Providers must give advance notice to employers or health care institutions of services they refuse to provide, and must post notices listing refused services along with Department of Health and Human Services contact information for alternative providers

The right does not apply to emergency department care requiring medical screening and stabilization under federal EMTALA requirements, nor does it override existing contractual obligations at belief-based health care institutions

Effective May 6, 2026, the bill creates enforcement mechanisms allowing complaints to the Division of Professional Licensing or Department of Health and Human Services, with court action available if agencies fail to act, including potential injunctive relief, damages, and attorney fees