Jun. 21, 2018
HARRISBURG – Giving parents the final word in substance abuse cases involving their children is the basis for legislation authored by state Rep. Marcia Hahn (R-Bushkill Township) that is headed to Gov. Tom Wolf’s desk following a unanimous vote in the House Thursday.
“There are never easy answers in times when loved ones fall victim to drug and alcohol abuse,” said Hahn. “If that loved one is a minor, it’s my belief the parent or legal guardian knows best when it comes to treatment decisions, and that is why I authored
House Bill 17.”
Hahn’s legislation would amend the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Control Act to allow a parent or legal guardian to provide consent over the objection of a minor with respect to furnishing medical care or counseling related to diagnosis or treatment of substance abuse. The bill does protect the patient’s rights in that anyone providing medical care may only share with the parents information that would reduce the threat of harm to the minor.
“With the unfortunate volume of cases of substance abuse these days, I’m hoping the governor acts quickly and signs House Bill 17 into law,” Hahn added.
Representative Marcia Hahn
138th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives