LEGAL REMEDIES

Senate passes bill to assist abuse victims

A bill that would extend the legal remedies available to victims of domestic violence passed the Senate 47-0 yesterday.

The Schaefer administration is pushing the bill, which would allow victims of domestic violence to get civil protection orders against their abusers, ordering them out of their homes for up to six months. The bill also would provide for temporary financial support for spouses and children.

The House Judiciary Committee has held hearings on a similar bill but has not acted on it.

In another 47-0 vote, the Senate approved a bill that would allow rape victims to request HIV tests of suspects.

A similar bill is in the House Environmental Matters Committee.

MEDICAL CARE

House approves bill to study insurance

The House of Delegates approved a bill yesterday that asks for a study of what the state can do to make health insurance available and affordable to all Marylanders.

The measure now goes to the state Senate.

The House also voted 98-24 for a bill that would penalize hospitals that overcharge patients or bill them for services not provided.

The measure would require hospitals to give itemized bills and repay to patients the full amount of any erroneous charges.

Today in Annapolis

10 a.m.: House and Senate convene, State House.

10 a.m.: Board of Public Works meets, State House.

1 p.m.: Senate Finance Committee considers legislation to establish small employer group health insurance program, Presidential Wing, Senate Office Building.

1 p.m.: House Economic Matters Committee considers bills involving Maryland Home Improvement Commission, Room 150, House Office Building.

There are 20 days remaining in the 1992 General Assembly session.