Assembly Bill 49 proposes to allow unaccompanied youth, defined as homeless minors not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian, to consent to and receive medically necessary health care without parental permission. To qualify, the minor must be at least 14 years old and not under the supervision of certain state departments or agencies. The bill outlines that a written confirmation from designated professionals, such as school social workers or shelter intake employees, is required to verify the minor's status as an unaccompanied youth.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that healthcare providers who offer services based on the minor's consent will not be held liable for civil or criminal actions for proceeding without parental consent. However, it clarifies that this immunity does not protect providers from negligence claims related to the diagnosis or treatment of the minor. The legislation also emphasizes that identifying a minor as an unaccompanied youth does not imply abuse or neglect and does not override existing mandatory reporting requirements for suspected abuse.