Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that requires parental consent for individuals under the age of 18 to obtain abortions.

Highlights:

• Specifies that a physician who intentionally or recklessly performs an abortion without obtaining the required consent by a parent or legal guardian will be charged with a 3rd degree felony (Sec. 2).

• Prohibit criminal penalties from being imposed upon the minor on whom the unauthorized abortion was performed (Sec. 2).

• Specifies that in cases of medical emergencies, the physician must make reasonable attempts, without endangering the minor, to contact the parent or legal guardian, and may proceed with an abortion without risk of criminal penalties (Sec. 2).

• Requires physician to obtain written consent from a parent or legal guardian before performing an abortion for a minor (Section 2).

• Requires the consenting parent or legal guardian to provide a copy of their ID and written documentation established legal guardianship of the minor to the physician, and certify in a notarized statement that they consent to the abortion (Sec. 2).

• Requires the physician to keep a copy of the proof of guardian’s identification and certified statement in the patient’s medical file for 5 years after the minor reaches the age of 18, but in no event less than 7 years (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text