Minnesota GOP – Let Parents Know When Kids Seek Care

ST. PAUL  (AP) - A GOP proposal would require parental consent before minors could seek treatment for pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases or drug and alcohol abuse, undoing a 40-year-old Minnesota law.

Minnesota now prevents doctors from disclosing medical information to parents unless the patient agrees or there's a risk of immediate harm.

But Sen. David Hann says parents are surprised when they find out they don't the right to know about the condition of their child.

Opponents warn his bill could prevent some young people from seeking care because they're embarrassed or afraid to talk with their parents.

The Guttmacher Institute says it would make Minnesota the only state to block minors from STD services without parental approval.

The legislation has been approved by a Senate committee, but has no companion in the House.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)