| For Immediate Release | For more information contact: |
| March 12, 1999 | Eric Lochen (651-296-9895) |
ST. PAUL The Minnesota House of Representatives voted 126-5 on March 5 in favor of House File 183, a bill authored by Rep. Mark Buesgens (R-Jordan) that closes a loophole and allows a parent or a legal guardian to admit a 16- or 17-year-old for chemical dependency.
"I'm glad to see the overwhelming support that this bill received," Buesgens said. "Not only does it show that the vast majority of people recognize the importance of the issue, but that partisan politics could be set aside and that legislation can be accomplished in a concise manner."
Buesgens' bill addresses the fact that as the law stands currently, individuals that are 16 or 17 have the right to refuse treatment, even if it is determined by a medical expert that the individual is chemically dependent and suitable for treatment. Anyone under 16 may be admitted for chemical dependency treatment with parental consent and an independent evaluation. The bill creates a process for a person 16 or 17 years old who references to consent to treatment. The minor may be admitted for chemical dependency treatment with parent or guardian consent if independent examination shows the patient is chemically dependent and suitable for treatment. The examiner must notify the proposed patient and parent or guardian of this determination.
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