This bill aims to enhance the consistency of health care services provided to minors under the age of 17 in Washington State. Key amendments include raising the age at which minors can consent to treatment for sexually transmitted diseases and mental health or substance use disorder treatment from 14 to 17 years. Additionally, it specifies that minors aged 17 and older can admit themselves to treatment facilities without parental consent, while parental notification requirements are adjusted based on the minor's age and the type of treatment. The bill also mandates that minors can request outpatient treatment without parental consent, and it establishes a framework for the notification of parents regarding their minor children's treatment.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the financial responsibility of parents for abortion services provided to minors under 17, stating that parents cannot be held liable if they did not consent to the procedure. It also clarifies that the state cannot fund abortions for minors without parental consent unless the minor's life is in imminent danger. Additionally, the bill abolishes the principle of implied emancipation, which previously allowed minors to provide informed consent for health care procedures under certain circumstances. Overall, the legislation seeks to delineate the rights of minors in accessing health care while ensuring parental involvement in significant medical decisions.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70.24.110, 71.34.500, 71.34.510, 71.34.520, 71.34.530