REVISED
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS31273 / S1329
The Parents' Rights in Medical Decision-making Act ensures that children, who often lack maturity and make
choices without considering either immediate or long-term consequences, are protected by the informed
decision-making of their parents, who possess the most knowledge and are in the best position to ensure
that their children receive adequate medical attention. The rights secured by this Act flow out of the rights
recognized by the Idaho Parental Rights Act, Idaho Code Ann. §§ 32-1010 through -1014, which are "rooted
in the due process of law guaranteed pursuant to Section 13, Article I, of the constitution of the state of Idaho."
This Act clarifies that consent for the furnishing of health care services to any person who is an unemancipated
minor must be given or refused by the parent of such person. The Act further declares that a parent has a right
to access health information relating to the parent's minor child. Finally, the Act is intended to supersede any
current provisions of Idaho law that may otherwise conflict with the Act.
FISCAL NOTE
This legislation only reaffirms the fundamental rights of parents to access health care information and make
their children's health care decision. It requires no government spending and therefore has no impact to the
general funds of Idaho.
Contact:
Senator Kelly Arthur Anthon, Senate Majority Leader
(208) 332-1000
Representative Barbara Ehardt
(208) 332-1000
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note Bill SOP/FN REVISED: 03/12/2024, 3:02 PM