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HF 104

A bill for an act providing an exception to a minor’s legal capacity to consent to the provision of medical care or services for a sexually transmitted disease or infection.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dan Gehlbach

HF 104 requires parental consent for minors' STD vaccinations while allowing them to consent to other STD-related medical care, ensuring guardians are involved in health decisions.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 384.
#immunizations #informedconsent #medicalcare #minors #sexuallytransmitteddiseases
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Bill Summary · HF 104

Summary of HF 104 - Consent for Minors Regarding STDs

Bill Number: HF 104
Renumbered As: HF 384
Introduced On: January 22, 2025
Status: Committee report approving bill
Classification: Bill
Subject: Immunizations, Informed Consent, Medical Care, Minors, Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Purpose and Intent

HF 104 aims to clarify the legal capacity of minors to consent to medical care related to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The bill specifically addresses the provision of vaccinations for STDs, establishing that minors do not have the legal authority to consent to such vaccinations independently.

Key Provisions

  • Legal Capacity to Consent: The bill amends Section 139A.35 of the Code 2025, stating that minors can consent to medical care or services for the prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of STDs, except for vaccinations against these diseases.

  • Vaccination Exception: Minors will not have the legal capacity to consent to vaccinations for STDs. This means that parental or guardian consent will be required for such vaccinations.

  • Healthcare Provider Requirements: Medical care or services must be provided by or under the supervision of licensed healthcare professionals, including:

    • Physicians (MD or DO)
    • Physician assistants
    • Advanced registered nurse practitioners

  • Irrevocability of Consent: Any consent given by a minor for the treatment of STDs cannot be later disaffirmed due to their minority status. This provision ensures that once consent is given for treatment (excluding vaccinations), it remains valid.

Who is Affected?

  • Minors: The bill directly impacts minors seeking medical care for STDs, as it limits their ability to consent to vaccinations.

  • Parents and Guardians: The requirement for parental or guardian consent for vaccinations may increase their involvement in healthcare decisions for their children.

  • Healthcare Providers: Medical professionals will need to navigate the new consent requirements when providing care related to STDs.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 22, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Health and Human Services Committee.
  • January 28, 2025: Subcommittee meeting held to discuss the bill.
  • January 30, 2025: Subcommittee recommends passage of the bill.
  • February 11, 2025: Committee report recommending passage is submitted, with a vote of 13 in favor, 7 against, and 1 excused.
  • February 13, 2025: Committee report approving the bill is issued, and the bill is renumbered as HF 384.

Conclusion

HF 104 seeks to establish clear guidelines regarding minors' ability to consent to medical care for STDs, particularly focusing on the necessity of parental consent for vaccinations. This legislative change aims to ensure that minors receive appropriate medical care while also involving guardians in significant health decisions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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