The bill amends the Code of Alabama 1975 to raise the age at which a minor can legally consent to medical, dental, and mental health services from 14 to 16 years. It introduces new provisions that allow exceptions for certain minors, including those who are pregnant, emancipated, or have graduated from high school. The legislation emphasizes the fundamental right of parents to make healthcare decisions for their children and prohibits healthcare providers and governmental entities from denying parents access to their minor child's health information, with specified exceptions such as court orders or abuse investigations.

Additionally, the bill mandates local boards of education to employ mental health service coordinators and outlines their qualifications and responsibilities. It requires schools to adopt policies regarding parental consent for mental health services, ensuring that parents are informed and have the authority to make decisions about their child's treatment. The bill also clarifies that mental health services can still be provided without parental consent in cases of imminent threat, suspected abuse, or immediate grief counseling needs. Key insertions include provisions for individuals aged 18 and older to consent to clinical trials and for certain minors to consent to medical services for their own children. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 16-22-16, 22-8-4, 22-8-6, 22-8-9, 22-8-10, 22-8-12, 22-8-13, 16-22-16, 22-8-4, 22-8-6, 22-8-9, 22-8-10
Engrossed: 16-22-16, 22-8-4, 22-8-6, 22-8-9, 22-8-10, 22-8-12, 22-8-13, 16-22-16, 22-8-4, 22-8-6, 22-8-9, 22-8-10
Enrolled: 16-22-16, 22-8-4, 22-8-6, 22-8-9, 22-8-10, 22-8-12, 22-8-13, 22-8-14