The bill amends Section 139A.35 of the Iowa Code to clarify the legal capacity of minors to consent to medical care related to sexually transmitted diseases or infections. Specifically, it establishes that minors can give consent for the prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of such diseases or infections without needing consent from a parent or guardian. This medical care must be provided by licensed healthcare professionals, including physicians, physician assistants, or advanced registered nurse practitioners.

However, the bill introduces a significant exception: minors are not permitted to consent to vaccinations for sexually transmitted diseases or infections. This change indicates a clear distinction in the legal capacity of minors regarding different types of medical care related to sexually transmitted conditions, emphasizing the need for parental or guardian consent for vaccinations while allowing minors to independently seek other medical services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 139A.35