Bill Summaries: S765 (2011-2012 Session)

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  • Summary date: Apr 20 2011 - View summary

    Amends GS Chapter 90 by adding a new Article 11 (GS 90-21.75 et seq.) that prohibits health care providers from refusing to treat or accept a referral for a patient based on either lawful conduct by the patient relating to firearms and ammunition or refusal by the patient to disclose information about lawful conduct relating to firearms and ammunition. The new article further prohibits health care providers from questioning a patient about lawful conducting relating to firearms and ammunition unless the health care provider has first advised the patient about the purpose of the questions and the patient’s right to not answer the questions. Prohibitions do not apply if the health care provider reasonably believes the patient poses an imminent threat to self or others, the patient has brought a firearm and ammunition into an area where such are prohibited, the patient volunteers information in the absence of any question from the health care provider, or the health care provider reasonably believes that disclosure of the information is necessary to diagnose or treat a specific illness or injury. Violations of the article are grounds for disciplinary action by the health care provider’s licensing board or other regulatory authority, and imposition of a civil fine of up to $250 for nonwillful violations and $500 for willful violations. Effective October 1, 2011.