This bill addresses the rights of parents, guardians, and minors, specifically concerning decisions related to minors' medical care and upbringing. It amends Section 601.1 of the Code 2025 to affirm that parents or guardians have the ultimate responsibility and constitutionally protected rights to make decisions affecting their minor children, including medical care, moral and religious upbringing, residence, education, and extracurricular activities. The bill stipulates that any restrictions on these rights will be subject to strict scrutiny.
Additionally, the bill repeals Section 147.164, which previously included prohibitions related to gender transition procedure-related activities for minors. The legislation is deemed of immediate importance, taking effect upon enactment, and it is retroactively applicable to March 22, 2023.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 601.1, 147.164