South Carolina H3638 strengthens parental rights in healthcare decisions for minors.

South Carolina H3638 amends state law to reinforce parental rights in healthcare decisions for minors. It asserts that parents have the fundamental right to direct their minor child's upbringing, education, and care, including healthcare decisions and access to medical records. The state cannot substantially burden these rights unless it demonstrates a compelling state interest and that the burden is the least restrictive means to achieve it. The bill also prohibits healthcare providers from encouraging or coercing minors to withhold health information from their parents.

South Carolina H3638 strengthens parental rights in healthcare decisions for minors.

South Carolina H3638 amends state law to reinforce parental rights in healthcare decisions for minors. It asserts that parents have the fundamental right to direct their minor child's upbringing, education, and care, including healthcare decisions and access to medical records. The state cannot substantially burden these rights unless it demonstrates a compelling state interest and that the burden is the least restrictive means to achieve it. The bill also prohibits healthcare providers from encouraging or coercing minors to withhold health information from their parents.