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 parental consent is not required for minors aged 17 and older to receive inpatient treatment for mental health or substance use disorders. The bill also mandates that parents be notified of their minor child's admission to treatment facilities, with certain exceptions, and outlines the process for minors to leave treatment facilities.

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 services. It also establishes that minors under 17 cannot provide informed consent for health care procedures unless specifically authorized by law, effectively abolishing the mature minor rule as previously recognized in Washington case law. The bill includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the act is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still stand.

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