DES MOINES — Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a series of bills into law today. The legislation covers topics including parental authority over minors’ medical decisions, state employee leave, judicial operations and environmental protections.
House File 2523 establishes the fundamental right of a parent or guardian to make decisions for a minor child, including those related to medical care. It permits a parent or guardian to authorize evaluation, counseling, therapy, rehabilitation services, medication management, outpatient treatment or inpatient treatment for a substance use disorder or mental health condition. The parent’s consent remains effective despite any objection from the minor.
The measure updates procedures for voluntary hospital admissions of minors for mental illness treatment. If a minor objects, the parent or guardian must seek juvenile court approval. The court must appoint an attorney for the minor if needed and determine whether the admission serves the child’s best interest and is supported by clear and convincing evidence that treatment is necessary and no less restrictive option exists…