Records access

A bill that would allow a minor child’s parent or guardian access to the child’s health records passed the House 86-47.

Sponsored by Rep. Tim Wilkin (R-Eagan), HF352 would amend a more than 30-year-old state law that provides minors confidentiality when seeking medical treatment.

 “This law places legal barriers between parents and their children,” Wilkin said.

An amendment by Rep. Michael Paymar (DFL-St. Paul), that would have restored existing law and provide a parent “opt-in” regarding medical records access was defeated.

The bill would allow officials of a licensed residential facility providing short-term shelter for homeless minors to provide consent for medical and mental health care, except “family planning services.”

Opponents said the law has helped teens overcome difficult family situations to obtain medical care and advice for chemical dependency, sexually transmitted diseases, and other health needs.

The bill now goes to the Senate, where Sen. Sean Nienow (R-Cambridge) is the sponsor.