North Carolina Legislature Advances Bill Restricting Confidential Medical Access for Minors

The North Carolina House has approved a bill that significantly tightens the rules around minors' access to confidential health services, including mental health care and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STDs). The legislation, known as the "Parents' Medical Bill of Rights," mandates that health care providers obtain parental consent before treating minors in most situations related to mental health, substance use, and sexual health, overriding current law that allows some minors to seek such services confidentially.

The bill received unanimous support from Republicans and opposition from most Democrats, with only four Democratic representatives voting in favor. Proponents argue that parental involvement is essential in minors' healthcare decisions, emphasizing the role of family in emotional, mental, and physical health management. Supporters, like Rep. Jennifer Balkcom, stress that separating minors' confidential care from parental oversight undermines the fundamental responsibilities of parents.

Opponents, including several Democratic lawmakers, contend that the bill could hinder minors' access to critical care, especially in cases where parents are absent, abusive, or unsupportive. Critics warn that the bill may discourage minors from seeking necessary medical attention, particularly for sensitive issues like mental health, sexual health, or gender-affirming treatments. They emphasize the importance of confidentiality in fostering trust between young people and healthcare providers.

The legislation allows minors to consent for pregnancy-related treatment, excluding abortions, and for sexually transmitted diseases that can be treated within a short-duration prescription. Exceptions to parental consent include emergency situations, cases of abuse or neglect, and when a parent cannot be located. Additionally, the bill aims to limit minors' access to confidential information, including medical records.

House Speaker Destin Hall pointed out that the bill was developed with input from the medical community to balance minors' needs with parents' rights. Hall highlighted that parental involvement should generally be the default, except in cases of abuse.

Among the notable votes, Democratic Reps. Carla Cunningham, Abe Jones, Garland Pierce, and Amos Quick supported the bill. Cunningham shared her personal experience about her child's mental health care, acknowledging the difficulty but stressing the importance of parental awareness.

The bill now proceeds to the Senate. The debate underscores ongoing tensions over minors' rights to confidential health care and parental authority, illustrating the broader national conversations around adolescent health, autonomy, and safety.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-nc-house-bill-curbing-minors.html