ID H0026

Allows disclosure of confidential statements from children over age 14 in mental health treatment to parents or guardians without written permission for four specific purposes: obtaining Medicaid or insurance coverage, contesting or appealing denial of such coverage, carrying out the treatment plan including accessing services and supports, and preventing harm to the child or others.

Maintains the requirement that disclosure must be authorized by court order as an alternative to the four enumerated purposes.

Preserves the child's right to access their own treatment information, obtain copies, and submit clarifying or correcting statements for inclusion in their treatment record.

Allows health professionals to deny a child access to their records if disclosure would be damaging to the child, with the child retaining the right to petition the court for access.

Declares the changes constitute an emergency measure effective upon passage and approval.