The bill SB101 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 parental rights in healthcare decisions, ensuring that parents have access to their minor child's health information, except in specific circumstances such as court orders or criminal investigations. Additionally, it allows individuals aged 18 and older to consent to participate in clinical trials and permits minors who are parents or pregnant to consent to medical services for their own children.

The bill also mandates local boards of education to employ mental health service coordinators and requires schools to establish policies regarding parental consent for mental health services. It ensures that parents are informed and retain authority over their child's treatment while allowing for the provision of mental health services in cases of imminent threat or suspected abuse without parental consent. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance parental involvement in minors' healthcare decisions while ensuring access to necessary mental health services, with the act 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