New Hampshire House Bill HB1378

New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/2/25
• Refer: 12/2/25
• Engrossed: 3/17/26
• Refer: 3/17/26
• Report DNP: 5/7/26

Caption

Relative to parental access to a minor child's electronic medical records.

Impact

The legislation modifies existing laws to explicitly grant parental access while also enshrining exceptions where access may be restricted. This is particularly pertinent in cases where a minor can consent to medical treatment independent of parental input, such as in mental health services or reproductive health matters. Additionally, the bill addresses situations involving protective orders and suspected abuse, thereby balancing the rights of parents with the need to protect children from potential harm.

Summary

House Bill 1378 aims to establish clearer regulations regarding parental access to the electronic medical records of minor children. The bill specifies that parents or legal guardians are entitled to full access to these records, underlining the responsibility of parents in coordinating their children's healthcare. However, this access is not absolute; there are defined circumstances under which a parent may be denied access to their child's medical records, ensuring that the child's welfare is prioritized above parental rights in certain cases.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1378 appears generally supportive, especially among advocates of parental rights who believe that informed decision-making is crucial for a child's healthcare. Nonetheless, there may be some contention regarding the exceptions to access, as advocates for children's rights and mental health professionals might argue against broad parental access under circumstances where it could potentially harm the child. This reflects broader societal concerns about privacy, consent, and the rights of minors in healthcare contexts.

Contention

A notable point of contention could arise concerning the balance between parental rights and the child's best interests as determined by healthcare professionals or the courts. While the bill allows parents access to essential medical information, it simultaneously safeguards against the potential for abuse and neglect by excluding situations where access could lead to harm. These exceptions are crucial to ensuring that healthcare providers can keep children's welfare at the forefront while navigating family dynamics.