This bill amends existing laws regarding the consent for medical, behavioral, and mental health treatment for minors aged 16 and older in Alaska. It allows unaccompanied homeless minors or those living independently from their parents to provide consent for such services, provided they have the necessary documentation. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for minors to consent to outpatient behavioral and mental health services for up to five appointments without parental consent, with specific conditions under which parental consent may be bypassed if it is deemed detrimental to the minor's well-being.

The bill also clarifies the responsibilities of mental health providers in obtaining parental consent and outlines the circumstances under which they can continue to provide services without it. It relieves parents or guardians of financial obligations for services rendered under these new provisions. Furthermore, the bill specifies that the rights of parents regarding major medical treatment are maintained, except in cases covered by the new consent provisions. The effective date for this legislation is set for January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB0090A, AM SB 90, introduced 02/10/2025: 25.20.025, 18.16.010, 14.30.174, 47.30.915, 47.10.084, 25.20.028, 47.12.150