The Connecticut State Legislature has introduced House Bill 7135, a significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing the privacy protections surrounding reproductive health care and gender-affirming services. Introduced on April 24, 2025, the bill seeks to address growing concerns over patient confidentiality in the wake of increasing legal scrutiny and potential out-of-state legal actions.

The primary purpose of House Bill 7135 is to establish stringent guidelines that prevent covered entities and business associates from disclosing any patient communications or information related to reproductive health care and gender-affirming services without explicit written consent from the patient or their legal representative. This provision is designed to safeguard sensitive health information from being disclosed in civil actions or administrative proceedings, particularly in cases where the actions forming the basis for liability occurred outside of Connecticut.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for covered entities to inform patients of their rights regarding consent for information disclosure and the obligation to notify the Attorney General's office if they receive a subpoena for patient information that does not include the necessary consent. This aims to create a protective barrier against unauthorized disclosures that could jeopardize patient privacy.

The bill has sparked notable debates among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that it is a crucial step in protecting individual rights and ensuring that patients feel safe seeking necessary health care services without fear of legal repercussions. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential implications for legal accountability and the challenges it may pose for law enforcement in cases involving reproductive health issues.

The implications of House Bill 7135 extend beyond legal frameworks; they touch on broader social and political issues surrounding reproductive rights and gender identity. Experts suggest that the bill could set a precedent for similar legislation in other states, particularly as the national conversation around reproductive health continues to evolve.

As the legislative process unfolds, the future of House Bill 7135 remains uncertain. Its passage could significantly impact how health care providers manage patient information and could influence the ongoing discourse on reproductive rights in Connecticut and beyond. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, pending further legislative approval.