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 of the minor's status as an unaccompanied youth must be provided by designated professionals, such as school social workers or employees of shelters.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that health care providers who offer services based on the minor's consent will not be held liable for not obtaining parental consent, although they remain liable for negligence in diagnosis or treatment. The legislation also clarifies 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.