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HD 492

An Act allowing certain minors to consent to supportive services

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sean Garballey and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill allowing minors to independently consent to certain supportive services without requiring parental permission or notification.

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Bill Summary · HD 492

Legislative bill overview

HD 492 allows minors (typically under 18) to independently consent to certain supportive services without parental permission. The bill establishes which specific health, mental health, or social services minors can access directly, removing barriers that otherwise require parental involvement or notification.

Why is this important

This bill addresses real situations where minors may avoid seeking needed services due to fear of parental disclosure or family conflict. It balances minor autonomy with public health goals, potentially improving outcomes for vulnerable youth while raising questions about parental rights and family communication.

Potential points of contention

  • Parental authority vs. minor privacy: Determines how much medical/mental health decision-making authority parents retain when minors can consent independently
  • Scope definition: Disagreement likely over which specific services qualify (counseling? substance abuse treatment? sexual health services?) and whether the bill's definitions are appropriately narrow or too broad
  • Safety and notification: Tension between protecting minors' confidentiality and concerns that parents should be informed when children access services, particularly regarding safety issues

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

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