Reckless bill abandons Florida’s youth in their moment of crisis
TALLAHASSEE – House Bill 173 today cleared the Florida House Education and Employment Committee, its final stop before an expected vote on the House Floor. This bill creates life-threatening, unnecessary barriers to health care for Florida’s youth, including crisis mental health counseling, by cutting off access for minors who do not get parental permission.
Statement from Cheyenne Drews, Reproductive Freedom Program Director for Progress Florida:
“This reckless legislation abandons evidence-based best practices and poses a dangerous threat to Florida’s young people and their futures. If passed, this bill would not allow minors to access potentially life-saving mental health services if a parent does not give permission.
“Imagine a teenager bravely contacting a mental health hotline in deep crisis, only to be hung up on. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death among young people. For those who are unable to comfortably or safely involve a parent in these personal decisions, they deserve more support, not to be left behind.
“Similar legislation passed in Idaho in 2024 and the outcomes have been so catastrophic that the bill sponsors have admitted that changes are needed.
“In just the first year the Idaho law went into effect, more than 1,500 individuals between the ages of five and 17 called the state Crisis and Suicide Hotline. When told they would have to put a parent on the phone in order to receive help, most hung up. It is unconscionable for politicians to abandon young Floridians in their moment of crisis.
“In addition to being cut off from crisis mental health resources, under this bill, a teen could be refused treatment for an STI which could lead to cancer, reduced motor functions, infertility, and even death.
“Most parents rightfully want to be involved in their teens’ lives, but when that can’t happen, safety must come first. It is now up to the full House and the Senate to reject this cruel and misguided legislation from ever taking hold in Florida.”
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