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. Additionally, the bill allows individuals aged 18 and older to consent to participate in clinical trials without needing consent from others and permits minors who are parents or pregnant to consent to medical services for their own children.

Moreover, 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 clarifies that mental health services can still be provided in cases of imminent threat, suspected abuse, or immediate grief counseling without parental consent. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance parental involvement in minors' healthcare decisions while ensuring access to necessary mental health services, with an effective date set for 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