The bill introduced by Representative Newman aims to amend several sections of the Revised Code to prohibit the provision of mental health services to minors without obtaining parental consent. Key amendments include the requirement for mental health professionals to secure consent from at least one parent, legal custodian, or guardian before diagnosing or treating a minor for gender-related conditions. Additionally, the bill mandates that school districts develop policies to promote parental involvement in decisions regarding students' mental, emotional, or physical health, including the requirement for parental authorization before any health care services are provided to students.

The bill also repeals section 5122.04 of the Revised Code, which previously governed certain aspects of mental health services. Other sections amended include provisions related to the communication between emergency departments and child services agencies regarding minors in crisis, as well as the handling of protected health information in health information exchanges. The overall intent of the bill is to reinforce parental rights in the context of minors' health care and education, ensuring that parents are informed and involved in decisions affecting their children's well-being.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2151.461, 3129.03, 3313.473, 3798.07, 3798.12, 5122.04