(The Center Square) – In March 20024, the Washington State Legislature passed Initiative 2081 , the parents’ bill of rights, which took effect on June 6 of that same year.
Under I-2081, parents have the right to examine textbooks, curriculum, and any supplemental materials used in their children’s classrooms. They also have the right to inspect their child’s public school records and receive a copy within 10 business days of submitting a written request.
According to Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen, I-2081 did not go far enough in protecting parents’ rights to be involved in healthcare decisions for their minor children.
As such, he has pre-filed House Bill 1176 to amend the state’s “mature minor doctrine.”
“With initiatives, there’s a strict practice of single subject, and we weren’t able to accomplish everything we wanted with that, so this is kind of the next step in restoring family rights, and parental rights,” Walsh said.
I-2081 requires parental notification if a child is seeking medical or mental health care at school, or being referred for care outside school.