The bill amends sections 1001.42 and 1014.06 of the Florida Statutes to establish new protocols for health screenings of K-12 students. It mandates that specified screenings can only be performed after parents receive written notification and have a reasonable opportunity to deny consent or opt their child out of such services. The bill emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in decisions regarding their child's mental, emotional, or physical health, ensuring that school personnel cannot discourage parental notification or involvement in these matters. Additionally, it requires school districts to notify parents at the beginning of the school year about available health care services and their rights regarding consent.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that health care practitioners and facilities must obtain written parental consent before providing health care services to minors, with the exception of certain circumstances outlined in the law. The new language specifies that screenings, as defined in existing statutes, can proceed under the same conditions of parental notification and consent. The bill aims to reinforce parental rights while ensuring that students have access to necessary health screenings, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 370 Filed: 1001.42, 1014.06