The proposed bill establishes a "Parent's Bill of Rights" in Minnesota, codified under chapter 260C. It defines key terms such as "minor child" and "parent," and outlines the fundamental rights of parents regarding the upbringing, education, and health care of their minor children. These rights include directing education choices, accessing school records, making health care decisions, and providing consent for various medical and personal interventions. The bill emphasizes that no governmental entity may infringe upon these rights and includes provisions for parental notification in cases of suspected criminal offenses against their children.
Additionally, the bill prohibits any attempts by state employees or institutions to encourage minors to withhold information from their parents and protects parents from coercion or discrimination for exercising their rights. It clarifies that while parents have comprehensive rights, these do not permit abuse or neglect of a child, nor do they impede the authority of courts or law enforcement. The bill asserts that parental rights are inalienable unless legally waived or terminated, ensuring that parents retain their rights beyond those explicitly listed in the legislation.