The bill focuses on improving access to protected health care services for youth and young adults, particularly those experiencing homelessness. It acknowledges the unique challenges faced by unsheltered youth, especially transgender individuals, and aims to remove barriers to temporary shelter accommodations. Key provisions include new definitions and responsibilities for shelters and organizations caring for minors, particularly regarding parental notification when minors are admitted without permission. The legislation allows for exceptions to this notification requirement in cases where it may lead to abuse or neglect or when the minor is seeking protected health care services.

Additionally, the bill mandates that licensed shelters notify parents within a specified timeframe upon a minor's admission and report to the department if the minor is seeking or receiving protected health care services. It also requires host home programs to report similar information when serving minors without parental authorization. To further support unsheltered homeless youth under 18, the bill directs the office of homeless youth prevention and protection programs to contract with an external entity to collect data on this population and develop recommendations for legislative action. Findings and recommendations are to be submitted to legislative committees by July 1, 2024, ensuring that lawmakers have the necessary information to address youth homelessness effectively.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 13.32A.082, 74.15.020
Substitute Bill: 13.32A.082, 74.15.020
Engrossed Substitute: 13.32A.082, 74.15.020
Bill as Passed Legislature: 13.32A.082, 74.15.020
Session Law: 13.32A.082, 74.15.020