AZ SB1496

Adds a new exception to Arizona's parental consent requirement for minors seeking abortion: if a physician or counselor provides specific pregnancy information and counseling, or refers the minor to a counselor who will provide such counseling, parental consent is not required.

Requires counseling to include objective explanation of alternatives (carrying pregnancy to term, adoption, prenatal/postnatal care) and discussion of involving parents or guardians, with opportunity for the minor to ask questions.

Requires the physician or counselor providing counseling to have the minor sign a form documenting that the required information and counseling were provided, and to maintain records of the counseling session.

Maintains existing parental consent requirements unless one of three exceptions applies: sexual conduct with a family member, medical emergency threatening the minor's life or health, or completion of the counseling process described above.

Preserves existing provisions regarding judicial bypass procedures, confidentiality of records, expedited court appeals, and civil remedies for parents or guardians when parental consent requirements are violated.