Bill would require hospitals to post discreet notices to help abuse and trafficking victims

Representative Stark introduced House Bill 3287, saying the measure would require hospitals to post notices in nonconspicuous clinical areas — for example, x-ray, CAT scan or MRI rooms and select bathrooms — advising patients that if they are victims of domestic abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse or human trafficking they may notify the technician performing a test.

Stark described the rationale as creating a private way for victims to signal staff when a perpetrator is present. "The idea I had was ... in x-ray areas where the perpetrator would not be allowed to go," Stark said, noting the postings would be in places a perpetrator would not normally be present. A committee member suggested adding a hotline number or language offering to connect the patient to someone; Stark said she would not oppose that addition.

Members clarified the bill’s scope. A lawmaker asked whether clinics would be covered; Stark said the current language focuses on hospitals because many victims visit emergency departments for injuries that require imaging. The sponsor also said hospitals would be required to have a plan so a patient identified as a possible victim would not be discharged until appropriate reporting — for example to law enforcement — had been completed.

After brief questions, the sponsor moved for adoption and the committee recorded a vote of 5 yays, 0 nays. The chair declared House Bill 3287 passed out of committee.