Providers would need each parent’s or each guardian’s consent to stop life support for minors outside a separate consent rule

Providers would need consent before ordering staff not to try to revive a minor, or withholding or stopping treatment to allow natural death. This applies to minors, including babies born before 20 weeks of pregnancy, except those covered by a separate state consent rule. The proposal would treat continued life as being in the minor’s best interest. Every parent or every legal guardian must consent aloud and in writing, with two witnesses. The provider must record who consented. A parent or guardian may take back consent at any time. If enacted, this rule would take effect July 1, 2026.

Providers would have to allow parents or legal guardians to seek another medical opinion or transfer a minor’s care. This applies to minors except those covered by a separate state consent rule. Providers could not hinder or delay medical care needed for the transfer. If a parent or guardian requests a transfer, providers must continue life support, including nutrition and fluids, until it happens. If enacted, this rule would take effect July 1, 2026.

Courts would lack authority to order life support stopped over a parent’s or legal guardian’s objection. This applies to minors except those covered by a separate state consent rule. If enacted, this rule would take effect July 1, 2026.