California legislators introduced a bill last week that would allow children ages 12 and older to consent to mental health services or counseling without parent permission.
Currently, the state allows minors over 12 to consent to such if they are “mature enough to participate intelligently” and if the child is in an abusive situation or in danger of harm to themselves or others, according to the bill’s text.
Assembly Bill 655, introduced Feb. 13 by Assemblywoman Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles), would remove the conditions of abuse or potential harm.
Additionally, the bill would require mental health professionals to receive the minor’s OK to speak with their parents or guardians about the child’s treatment….