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HB 965

Health; copies of certain patient records to parents or legal guardians of unemancipated minors; provide

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Charlice Byrd and 5 co-sponsors

Georgia requires healthcare providers to release minor patient records to parents/guardians of unemancipated minors upon request, raising privacy and care-seeking concerns.

House Second Readers
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Bill Summary · HB 965

Legislative bill overview

HB 965 requires healthcare providers in Georgia to provide copies of patient records to parents or legal guardians of unemancipated minors upon request. The bill establishes a mechanism for parental access to medical information about minors who have not yet reached the age of emancipation, with provisions for how providers must handle such requests.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects the balance between parental rights and minor privacy in healthcare settings. It impacts medical practices, family dynamics, and potentially influences what medical care minors seek, particularly regarding sensitive health issues. The law could affect how healthcare providers manage confidentiality policies and documentation procedures.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns for minors: Teens may avoid seeking care for sensitive issues (mental health, reproductive health, substance abuse) if they know parents will access records, potentially worsening health outcomes
  • Exceptions and limitations: The bill text doesn't specify whether exceptions exist for abuse cases, emancipated minors, or state-mandated confidentiality protections (like those in some states for minors seeking certain treatments)
  • Healthcare provider burden: Medical offices must implement new record-retrieval procedures and determine eligibility, creating administrative costs and potential legal liability

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

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