AUGUSTA - The Maine Legislature gave initial approval on Thursday to a bill sponsored by Rep. Jay McCreight, D-Harpswell, that would protect patients' access to health care.
As amended, LD 1899 would provide health service facilities the ability to establish and mark a "medical safety zone" extending eight feet from the center of an entryway. Within the zone, individuals would be prohibited from intentionally blocking entrances and exits, harassing and threatening patients, and making noise so loud that patients are unable to hear or process critical medical information while inside. The zones would be in effect only during the facilitys hours of operation. Violations could be charged as a Class E misdemeanor crime.
"For years, patients and providers have had to navigate safe entry and disruptions to the delivery of care," said McCreight. "It's time we enact a solution for this significant and long-standing problem. This bill will protect patients' right to access health care while also protecting the constitutional rights of free speech and of protest."
The bill faces further votes in the House and Senate.
McCreight, House chair of the Legislature's Marine Resources Committee and a member of the Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee, is serving her fourth term in the Maine House and represents Harpswell, West Bath and northeastern Brunswick.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [McCreight], c. 812-1111