An Act prohibiting nonconsensual intimate examinations of anesthetized or unconscious patients
This bill amends Massachusetts law to protect patients from nonconsensual intimate examinations, specifically pelvic, prostate, or rectal exams, while they are anesthetized, deeply sedated, or unconscious. It requires health care providers to obtain specific written consent from a patient for such exams unless the procedure is already part of the planned medical treatment for which the patient gave general consent or is an emergency situation. The law defines "health care providers" broadly to include physicians, nurses, students, and other clinical trainees who might perform these procedures. By establishing these clear requirements, the legislation aims to prevent unauthorized intimate physical contact during vulnerable medical states.
Bill status
passed
3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Feb 2023
House Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023
Last action Feb 1, 2024
Floor votes
How they voted
This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
6
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Feb 16, 2023
House · Passed
House concurred
Feb 16, 2023
Senate · Referred to committee
Referred to the committee on Public Health
1 primary · 8 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Ask Maddy
·
AI policy assistant
Ask Maddy about S 1333
Scope: MA
Hi! I can help you understand S 1333. What would you like to know?
Try one of these
i
Maddy answers using official bill text and legislative records. Always verify before sharing.
Sources cited inline