Senate Sponsors: LAUZEN. Short description: HIV PREGNANCY-HUMAN RIGHTS Synopsis of Bill as introduced: Creates the HIV Pregnancy Screening Act. Provides that health care providers caring for pregnant women must provide information and counseling regarding HIV, the advantages of being tested as soon as possible in the course of pregnancy, and the reduced rate of transmission of HIV to the newborn if the woman receives treatment during pregnancy. Gives each woman the right to consent to or refuse testing for HIV, Provides that HIV testing is confidential and may be anonymous and that the woman's care will not be altered because of her decision regarding testing. Directs health care providers to arrange HIV testing as early as possible for pregnant patients who consent. Requires the health care provider to document that material was distributed and whether consent for HIV testing was obtained or refused. Requires counseling and information and the opportunity for testing for women who present for delivery without having been tested. Specifies procedures at the time of communicating a positive test result to a pregnant woman or new mother. Requires counselors to assist women in obtaining access to an appropriate comprehensive clinical care facility. Requires reporting to the Illinois Department of Public Health and directs the Department to publish reports and provide guidelines and information. Amends the Illinois Human Rights Act. Specifically includes human immunodeficiency virus as a disease from which a number of conditions may result which meet the definition of "handicap" under the Act. Last action on Bill: SESSION SINE DIE Last action date: 99-01-12 Location: Senate Amendments to Bill: AMENDMENTS ADOPTED: HOUSE - 0 SENATE - 0 END OF INQUIRY Full Text Bill Status