Florida Senate Advances Bill Requiring Parental Consent for STD Treatment

Florida lawmakers are advancing bills that would require parental consent before minors can receive treatment for sexually transmitted diseases, stirring debate over parental rights versus minors’ access to confidential health care. Proponents argue the legislation empowers parents to make health decisions for their children and strengthens family engagement, while opponents, including reproductive rights advocates and some Republicans, warn it could deter vulnerable teens from seeking timely medical care, especially amid rising STI rates in the state. The bills, HB 1505 and SB 1288, have cleared key committee hurdles and are poised for Senate consideration, though amendments have clarified that minors may still be tested and examined for STDs without parental consent but cannot receive treatment without it. Exceptions remain for emergency care or court orders, and violations by health providers could bring disciplinary action. Critics highlight concerns that untreated infections could have serious long-term consequences for adolescents, including infertility. The legislative debate reflects broader tensions between individual privacy for minors and expanding parental oversight in health care decisions.