Kentucky lawmaker files bill to protect medical privacy and reproductive health care

FRANKFORT, KY. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – During the first day of the 2026 legislative session, State Rep. Lindsey Burke filed a bill aimed at protecting medical privacy and preventing the criminalization of reproductive health care.

According to a release, the proposed legislation would establish clear protections against penalties related to seeking or facilitating abortion care that is legal where it is provided and prescribed. Supporters say the bill is intended to clarify that patients and those who assist them cannot be punished under Kentucky law for accessing lawful reproductive health services.

Officials say the bill also includes safeguards to prevent medical records from being used to investigate or prosecute patients, health care providers, or individuals offering support related to reproductive care.

The filing comes amid growing concern among advocates following the recent arrest of a woman in Campton, Kentucky. Those concerns center on fears that pregnancy outcomes and reproductive health decisions could increasingly be scrutinized through a criminal lens.

The bill has been assigned to committee for further consideration. Lawmakers are expected to debate the proposal as the session continues.