Maryland § 20-214
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 20-214, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-214.
(a) (1) A person may not be required to perform or participate in, or refer to any source for, any medical procedure that results in artificial insemination, sterilization, or termination of pregnancy.
(2) The refusal of a person to perform or participate in, or refer to a source for, these medical procedures may not be a basis for:
(i) Civil liability to another person; or
(ii) Disciplinary or other recriminatory action against the person.
(b) (1) A licensed hospital, hospital director, or hospital governing board may not be required:
(i) To permit, within the hospital, the performance of any medical procedure that results in artificial insemination, sterilization, or termination of pregnancy; or
(ii) To refer to any source for these medical procedures.
(2) The refusal to permit or to refer to a source for these procedures may not be grounds for:
(i) Civil liability to another person; or
(ii) Disciplinary or other recriminatory action against the person by this State or any person.
(c) (1) The refusal of an individual to submit to or give consent for an abortion or sterilization may not be grounds for loss of any privileges or immunities to which the individual otherwise would be entitled.
(2) Submitting to or granting consent for an abortion or sterilization may not be a condition precedent to the receipt of any public benefits.
(d) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, a health care provider, a licensed hospital, a hospital director, or a hospital governing board is not immune from civil damages, if available at law, or from disciplinary or other recriminatory action, if the failure to refer a patient to a source for any medical procedure that results in sterilization or termination of pregnancy would reasonably be determined as:
(1) The cause of death or serious physical injury or serious long-lasting injury to the patient; and
(2) Otherwise contrary to the standards of medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 20-214
What does Maryland Code § 20-214 cover?
Section 20-214 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 20-214?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 20-214" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 20-214 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.