House Bill No. 400, introduced by Representatives Chenevert and Horton, amends existing laws regarding a minor's consent for medical procedures and treatments in Louisiana. The bill mandates that informed, written consent from a parent or legal guardian is required for all medical and mental health services provided to minors until they reach the age of 17. It outlines specific exceptions where minors can consent to their own medical care, including situations involving military service, emancipation, pregnancy, treatment for substance misuse, sexually transmitted diseases, blood donation, signs of abuse or neglect, and voluntary admission to treatment facilities. The bill also implies consent for emergency medical treatment for minors under 18.

Additionally, the bill repeals several existing provisions that previously allowed minors to consent to medical care without parental approval, including those related to drug addiction and preventive counseling in schools. It ensures that parents or guardians have access to their minor children's medical records and protects healthcare providers from civil or criminal liability when acting in accordance with the new consent requirements. The bill aims to strengthen parental authority in healthcare decisions for minors while still allowing for necessary exceptions in specific circumstances.

Statutes affected:
HB400 Original:
HB400 Engrossed: 40:1(A)(1)
HB400 Reengrossed: 40:1(A)(1)