WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 3446

Relating to access to a child's health records by the child's parent, managing conservator, or guardian.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Lacey Hull

Texas bill clarifies parental rights to access children's health records while raising questions about balancing parental oversight with adolescent medical privacy rights.

Committee report sent to Calendars
#family--parent&child(i0355) #guardians&wards(s0301) #health--general(i0385) #health--otherdiseases&medicalconditions(i0383) #health--privacy/useofinformation(i0389) #minors--health&safety(i0533) #parentalrights(s0095)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 3446

Legislative bill overview

HB 3446 addresses parental access to children's health records in Texas by clarifying the rights of parents, managing conservators, and guardians to obtain and review their child's medical information. The bill establishes standards for how healthcare providers must respond to requests for these records and defines what circumstances may limit such access.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects millions of Texas families by defining the scope of parental rights regarding medical privacy and healthcare decision-making. It impacts healthcare providers' administrative burden and legal obligations, while also raising questions about adolescent privacy rights, particularly regarding sensitive health matters like mental health treatment, reproductive care, or substance abuse services.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of access vs. minor privacy: Tension between parental rights to oversee children's healthcare and adolescents' interests in confidential medical treatment, especially for sensitive conditions
  • Healthcare provider compliance: Uncertainty about implementation costs, timelines for record provision, and liability for healthcare systems already managing complex privacy regulations
  • Carve-outs and exceptions: Disputes over which conditions or treatments should remain confidential from parents (mental health, reproductive services, addiction treatment) and under what circumstances

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

Sign in to ask a question.