HB 5417 Summary

• Adds Section 3b allowing parents to execute do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders on behalf of minor children diagnosed with advanced illness, requiring consent from both parents if they share legal decision-making authority.

• Establishes new procedures for guardians to execute DNR orders on behalf of wards (including minor children) under Section 3a, requiring physician signature and two adult witnesses.

• Requires DNR orders to be dated, voluntarily executed, and signed by the appropriate parties (declarant/parent/guardian, attending physician, and two witnesses) on a standardized form.

• Allows any person to revoke a DNR order at any time through communication of intent; revocation becomes binding upon actual notice to the attending physician or facility administrator.

• Establishes that health professionals (paramedics, EMTs, physicians, nurses, and others) shall not attempt resuscitation if they determine a patient has no vital signs and observe a DNR identification bracelet or have actual notice of a valid order.

• Takes effect April 4, 2021, contingent upon enactment of HB 5418.