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Bill

HB 1307

An Act amending Title 23 (Domestic Relations) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in general provisions relating to children and minors, providing for contracting and consent by certain minors.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Andre Carroll and 13 co-sponsors

PA HB 1307 expands minors' legal capacity to independently enter contracts and provide consent in certain circumstances, shifting decision-making authority from parents to youth.

Referred to Children & Youth
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1307

Legislative bill overview

HB 1307 amends Pennsylvania's domestic relations law to expand the legal capacity of minors to enter into contracts and provide consent in certain circumstances. The bill modifies Title 23 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, which governs family law and matters affecting children. The specific provisions regarding which contracts and consents are affected are not detailed in the bill summary provided.

Why is this important

Minors' legal capacity to contract and consent has significant real-world implications for education, employment, healthcare, and financial decisions. Changes to these rules affect what agreements minors can independently make versus what requires parental approval, which impacts both youth autonomy and consumer/business protections. This legislation could reshape how Pennsylvania treats minor decision-making across multiple sectors.

Potential points of contention

  • Balance between youth autonomy and consumer protection: Expanding minors' contracting power may increase their independence but could also expose them to predatory agreements or financial exploitation without adequate safeguards
  • Parental authority concerns: Parents may oppose reduced notification/consent requirements, viewing such changes as diminishing their legal guardianship responsibilities
  • Implementation clarity: The bill's scope (which specific contracts/consents are affected) remains unclear, creating uncertainty about how courts and businesses would apply these provisions in practice

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

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