H.B. No. 2159 amends the Family Code to clarify and expand the capacity of minors to consent to medical treatment for themselves and their children. The bill modifies the heading of Chapter 32 to reflect that it pertains to "Certain Treatment, Care, and Services for Minor Parent or Child," replacing the previous focus on consent by non-parents. Additionally, it revises Section 32.003(a) to specify that a minor who is unmarried and has actual custody of their child can consent to medical, dental, psychological, and surgical treatment for that child.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section, 32.0031, which explicitly allows a minor parent to consent to treatment for their child, provided they are unmarried and have custody. This change aims to empower minor parents by recognizing their ability to make healthcare decisions for their children. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Family Code 32.003, Subchapter A, Chapter , Family Code 164.052 (Family Code 32, Subchapter A, Chapter , Family Code 164)
House Committee Report: Family Code 32.003, Subchapter A, Chapter , Family Code 164.052 (Family Code 32, Subchapter A, Chapter , Family Code 164)
Engrossed: Family Code 32.003, Subchapter A, Chapter , Family Code 164.052 (Family Code 32, Subchapter A, Chapter , Family Code 164)