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SB 25

Children - As introduced, clarifies that a child's parent, legal guardian, or legal custodian may access and review all health and medical records of the child, including those records related to treatments available to unemancipated minors without parental consent; allows an employee of a local education agency to provide bandages, gauze, or ice packs for the treatment of minor cuts, scrapes, bumps, and bruises. - Amends TCA Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 49; Title 63 and Title 68.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Mark Pody

Bill grants parents access to all minor children's medical records including confidential treatments, and authorizes school staff to provide basic first aid supplies.

Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Education Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 25

Legislative bill overview

SB 25 clarifies parental rights to access all medical records of unemancipated minors, including records related to treatments available without parental consent. It also permits school employees to provide basic first aid (bandages, gauze, ice packs) for minor injuries without additional authorization.

Why is this important

The bill directly impacts medical privacy practices and parental authority regarding children's healthcare. It has significant implications for minors seeking confidential medical services and establishes school personnel's scope of care in treating minor injuries.

Potential points of contention

  • Confidentiality concerns: Requiring access to all records—including those for treatments typically available without parental consent (such as mental health services, contraception, or substance abuse counseling in some states)—may discourage minors from seeking needed healthcare due to privacy concerns
  • Medical autonomy for adolescents: Conflicts with medical ethics principles that recognize older minors' developing autonomy and the therapeutic value of confidential healthcare relationships
  • School liability clarification: While first aid authority appears straightforward, the bill's broad language could create ambiguity about what constitutes "basic" treatment and potential liability gaps for schools

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

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