Healthcare (Children)

Michigan Senate Bill 1124 allows homeless or runaway youths who are at least 14 years old to consent to and receive medically necessary health care without requiring parental permission. The bill defines specific criteria for these youths, including those seeking shelter in basic centers or transitional living programs, and lists acceptable documentation such as statements from school liaisons, attorneys, or two adults familiar with the individual's circumstances. Additionally, it grants young parents aged 14 and older the right to consent to medical treatment for their own children. Health care providers are protected from civil or criminal liability when treating these youths without parental consent, though they remain liable for any negligence in diagnosis or treatment.

This bill requires Michigan's department of health and human services to place children in residential treatment programs within 14 days when a court orders such placement. It directly affects children involved in the state's child welfare system and the agencies responsible for their care. The law adds a specific timeline to existing statutes, ensuring faster action on court-ordered treatment plans. This change aims to reduce delays in getting children into appropriate care settings.

HB 5514, the "Preventing Restraints in Youth Transport Act," prohibits youth transportation companies from using visual (e.g., blindfolds), mechanical (e.g., handcuffs), or most physical restraints when moving minors to qualified residential treatment programs. Exceptions allow physical restraints only if immediate serious harm is likely, staff are trained, and restraints are used for the shortest time necessary. Violations carry civil fines up to $1,000. The bill directly affects transportation providers and the minors they transport during these journeys.

HCR 1 is a non-binding concurrent resolution urging Michigan's Governor to issue an executive directive requiring state agencies to assess whether their programs reduce Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and to publish annual reports on progress. It directly affects all state agencies administering programs that could impact children's well-being, such as health, education, and social services. The resolution mandates agencies to evaluate program effectiveness in lowering ACEs - defined as traumatic childhood events like abuse or neglect - and share annual data with the Legislature and public. It cites Michigan data showing 68% of adults experienced at least one ACE, linking these to long-term health risks like depression. As a resolution, it does not create new law but requests the Governor take specific action.