Arkansas House Bill HB1266

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/23
• Refer: 1/26/23
• Report Pass: 2/9/23
• Refer: 2/13/23
• Failed: 5/1/23

Caption

To Authorize Certain Minors To Consent To Outpatient Mental Health Services For Suicide Prevention, Chemical Addiction Or Dependency, Or Sexual, Physical, Or Emotional Abuse.

Impact

The passage of HB 1266 would significantly impact state laws concerning minors' rights in healthcare settings. It amends Arkansas Code Title 20 to ensure that mental health professionals can treat minors for serious issues without parental consent, provided they have reasonable grounds to believe the minor is in need of such treatment. Additionally, the proposed law would obligate health benefit plans to cover these outpatient mental health services for minors, eliminating exclusions based on age.

Summary

House Bill 1266 proposes to allow minors aged 16 and older to consent to outpatient mental health services without the need for parental or guardian approval. This includes services aimed at suicide prevention, treatment for chemical addiction or dependency, and assistance for victims of sexual, physical, or emotional abuse. By authorizing minor consent, the bill aims to improve access to necessary mental health care for an often marginalized demographic that may otherwise lack support to seek help due to parental involvement issues.

Contention

There are potential points of contention surrounding HB 1266. Critics may express concerns about minors making such critical health decisions without parental involvement, arguing that this could set a precedent for further diminishing parental rights in healthcare consent. Supporters contend that such measures are essential for protecting vulnerable youth who may be experiencing dire mental health crises and require immediate intervention to prevent harm. There is a balance that needs to be struck between protecting minors and respecting family rights.