Arizona Bill Amending Parental Consent Requirements (HB 2455)

HB 2455 would amend Arizona’s parental consent statute. Under the new provision (Section N), parental consent or judicial authorization would not be required if a physician or counselor provides pregnancy information and counseling in a manner that will be understood by the minor.

The physician or counselor would be required, among other things: (1) to inform the minor that he or she is not trying to coerce the minor into having an abortion or carrying the pregnancy to term; (2) explain that the minor may withdraw the decision to have an abortion at any time; (3) to clearly explain the alternative choices available for managing pregnancy; (4) explain that agencies are available to provide information about birth control; (5) discuss the possibility of involving the minor’s parent; (6) and provide adequate opportunity for the minor to ask questions. The minor would be required to sign a form stating that she has received the requisite information and counseling.

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