HI HB684

Allows minors under 18 years old to provide informed consent for temporary safe shelter and related services from authorized providers without parental consent in specified circumstances.

Permits provider consent when the provider reasonably believes the minor understands the benefits, risks, and limits of services and the services are for the minor's benefit.

Permits minor consent when provider cannot contact parent/guardian/custodian despite reasonable efforts, parent/guardian refuses consent but minor would be harmed if returned home, or minor refuses to provide contact information and would be harmed if returned home.

Provides that minor consent is valid and binding as if the minor reached age of majority, cannot be disaffirmed due to minority, and shields providers from civil or criminal liability except for gross negligence or willful/wanton acts.

Exempts parents, guardians, and custodians from liability for costs or obligations resulting from services provided based on minor consent alone, and requires providers to document contact efforts and report findings of imminent harm or child abuse/neglect to the department.