Illinois House Bill 3163, introduced on March 14, 2025, aims to bolster protections for health care professionals providing abortion-related care by safeguarding their personal information from public disclosure. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Jaime M. Andrade, Jr., seeks to address growing concerns over the safety and privacy of these professionals amid heightened scrutiny and potential threats.

At its core, HB3163 allows health care providers to submit written requests to governmental agencies, businesses, or associations, demanding that their personal information remain confidential. If such a request is made, the bill mandates that the recipient must refrain from publicly posting or displaying any related content. Additionally, it exempts this personal information from the Freedom of Information Act, further ensuring privacy.

The legislation also introduces serious penalties for violations. It establishes that knowingly posting a health care professional's personal information, which poses a significant threat to their safety or that of their family, could result in a Class 3 felony charge. This provision aims to deter malicious actions that could lead to bodily harm or even death.

The bill has sparked notable discussions among lawmakers, particularly regarding the balance between public information and individual safety. While it has garnered support from Democratic representatives, concerns have been raised about potential implications for transparency in health care practices.

As the debate unfolds, experts suggest that HB3163 could set a precedent for similar legislation in other states, reflecting a growing trend to protect health care workers in contentious fields. The bill's future will hinge on further discussions in the Illinois legislature, where its implications for both privacy rights and public accountability will be closely examined.