Oppose SB1194: Protect Healthcare Triage and Emergency Response

I urge you to oppose Senate Bill 1194, scheduled for consideration in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on Wednesday. This legislation would fundamentally undermine healthcare providers' ability to make sound medical decisions and protect public health during emergencies. SB1194, sponsored by Senator Janae Shamp, prohibits health professionals and institutions from considering vaccination status when providing care or determining priority levels. While framed as anti-discrimination, this bill would prevent evidence-based medical triage and create dangerous liability for healthcare workers trying to protect vulnerable patients. The bill's enforcement mechanism is particularly problematic. It establishes a $500 penalty per violation or three times actual damages, whichever is greater, plus punitive damages and attorney fees. This creates a litigation minefield for healthcare providers who must already navigate complex medical and ethical decisions. A physician who appropriately prioritizes an immunocompromised patient over an unvaccinated individual during a measles outbreak could face costly lawsuits. Most concerning is the explicit provision that these restrictions apply during public health emergencies, healthcare crises, or pandemics. During the next infectious disease outbreak, hospitals need the flexibility to implement science-based protocols that protect both patients and staff. This bill would tie their hands precisely when rapid, evidence-based response is most critical. Healthcare providers already operate under robust anti-discrimination laws and professional ethics standards. They do not arbitrarily deny care. However, vaccination status is medically relevant information that informs treatment decisions, infection control protocols, and resource allocation during shortages. SB1194 conflates legitimate medical considerations with unlawful discrimination. I ask you to vote no on SB1194 in committee. Arizona's healthcare system needs the flexibility to respond effectively to public health threats while maintaining the highest standards of care for all patients. This bill would compromise both objectives while exposing dedicated healthcare professionals to frivolous litigation.