This bill amends existing laws regarding the consent for medical, behavioral, and mental health treatment for minors aged 16 years and older in Alaska. It allows unaccompanied homeless minors or those living independently from their parents to consent to their own medical, behavioral, and mental health services, provided they have the necessary documentation. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that permits minors aged 16 and older to consent to outpatient behavioral and mental health services for up to five appointments without parental consent, although medication cannot be prescribed without such consent. If a mental health provider determines that obtaining parental consent would be detrimental to the minor's well-being, they can continue to provide services without it, under certain conditions.

The bill also clarifies the responsibilities and rights of parents or guardians regarding their minor children’s treatment, specifically stating that they are relieved of financial obligations for services provided under this new framework. Furthermore, it emphasizes the confidentiality of the minor's treatment, stating that mental health providers cannot disclose information about the services to parents or guardians without the minor's written consent. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
HB0232A, AM HB 232, introduced 05/19/2025: 25.20.025, 18.16.010, 14.30.174, 47.30.915, 47.10.084, 25.20.028, 47.12.150