Bill > SB348

This bill modifies the Texas Family Code to expand medical consent rights for certain minors by adding two new provisions to the existing law. Specifically, the bill allows unmarried minors who are 16 years and older and recently pregnant to consent to postpartum medical treatment, and allows unmarried mothers to consent to examination and contraception-related medical treatment (excluding abortion). These additions build upon existing provisions that already permit minors to consent to medical treatment in various circumstances, such as being in the armed services, living separately from parents, managing their own finances, seeking treatment for infectious diseases, or being a parent themselves. The bill would take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature, or otherwise will become effective on September 1, 2025. The changes aim to provide greater medical autonomy for young mothers and pregnant individuals by removing potential barriers to accessing essential healthcare services.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB348