(A) As used in this section:

Ask a legal question, get an answer ASAP!
Click here to chat with a lawyer about your rights.

(1) “Addiction services” and “alcohol and drug addiction services” have the same meanings as in section 5119.01 of the Revised Code.

(2) “Controlled substance” has the same meaning as in section 3719.01 of the Revised Code.

(B) Any of the following health care professionals who attends a pregnant woman for conditions relating to pregnancy before the end of the twentieth week of pregnancy and who has reason to believe that the woman is using or has used a controlled substance in a manner that may place the woman’s fetus in jeopardy shall encourage the woman to enroll in a drug treatment program offered by a provider of addiction services or alcohol and drug addiction services:

(1) Physicians authorized under Chapter 4731 of the Revised Code to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine and surgery;

(2) Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses licensed under Chapter 4723 of the Revised Code;

(3) Physician assistants licensed under Chapter 4730 of the Revised Code.

(C) A health care professional is immune from civil l iability and is not subject to criminal prosecution with regard to both of the following:

(1) Failure to recognize that a pregnant woman has used or is using a controlled substance in a manner that may place the woman’s fetus in jeopardy;

(2) Any action taken in good faith compliance with this section.