DES MOINES, Iowa — A bill in the Iowa Senate could allow various health care providers to not participate in or pay for a service that violates their personal, moral or ethical beliefs.
SSB 3006 was introduced on Jan. 10, just two days into the legislative session. Since then, a subcommittee has recommended passage for the bill.
Some lobbyists argue the bill could open a door to discriminatory practices.
"By providing bad actors overly broad exemptions to be able to be empowered ultimately to discriminate against, whether it's LGBTQ people, women or other marginalized communities, it's only going to make problems worse," said Damian Thompson, the Director of External Affairs at Iowa Safe Schools.
However, those arguing in support of this bill say it is a simple right.
"It's important for our doctors and healthcare providers to be protected from anything that would violate their beliefs and their oath again to do no harm," said Maggie DeWitte, Executive Director of Pulse Life Advocates.
The legislation adds that health care providers are immune from liability for damages that could arise if they refuse a service.
Those against the bill believe it could create a burden for patients seeking care.
“They’re ultimately going to be less, or more hesitant to access that care, to reach out to their provider, when there’s a very real possibility of being denied, discriminated against, pushed down," Thompson said. "That doesn’t create and foster an open and affirming environment that you want to go talk to that provider."
Within the legislation, there is a specific section for abortions, reiterating that if abortions are against the health care providers' religious beliefs or moral convictions, they are not required to perform the procedure.
"We should never be in a position, whether you're a health care provider or anything, to do something that is against your moral convictions," DeWitte said.
The bill was recommended passage by a subcommittee on Wednesday, Jan. 24, and now is expected to be seen in a committee.