If this bill were to become law, it would amend current statutes regarding parental rights by explicitly stating that a parent's right to make health care decisions for their minor child includes the right to make mental health care decisions. This addition clarifies the scope of parental rights in health care matters, ensuring that mental health is explicitly included alongside other health care decisions.

Additionally, the bill would establish a minimum threshold for compensatory damages awarded for violations of the Parents' Bill of Rights, mandating that such damages total at least $2,500 for each violation. This change aims to strengthen the enforcement of parental rights by providing a clear financial consequence for governmental entities or officials that interfere with these rights, thereby enhancing the protections afforded to parents under the law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 1-602
Senate Engrossed Version: 1-602