This bill, known as "Simon's Law," establishes new regulations regarding life-sustaining treatment for unemancipated minors in Minnesota. It introduces a section in the Minnesota Statutes, chapter 144, that outlines the requirements for health care providers when issuing orders not to resuscitate or withholding life-sustaining treatment. Key provisions include the necessity for notifying at least one parent or legal guardian before such orders can be instituted, with a minimum 48-hour waiting period unless the urgency of the situation dictates otherwise. The bill also allows parents or guardians to request a transfer of the minor patient to another facility within 48 hours of notification and mandates that life-sustaining treatment be continued for a minimum of 15 days if a transfer is requested.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the revocation of consent for do-not-resuscitate orders, stipulating that such revocations take precedence over prior consents. It emphasizes the rights of parents and guardians, stating that a court cannot mandate the withdrawal of life-sustaining procedures against their wishes unless specific medical conditions are met. The bill also establishes a cause of action for family members if their rights under this law are violated and requires mandatory reporting of any non-compliance with the outlined procedures. Overall, the legislation aims to protect the rights of parents and guardians in making critical medical decisions for unemancipated minors.