HF2564: Pregnant Minor Consent

Establishes that pregnant minors in Iowa can legally consent to receiving certain medical care—specifically prenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care—if their parent, guardian, or legal custodian is not reasonably available. Health care providers are still required to obtain informed consent from the minor for such procedures.

Key Points & Impacts:

• Creates a new section (135.196) in Iowa law regarding minor consent for pregnancy care.

• Allows pregnant minors to consent to prenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care if a parent, guardian, or custodian is not reasonably available.

• Applies to care provided by physicians, physician designees, advanced registered nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and emergency medical care providers.

• Does not remove the requirement for health care providers to obtain informed consent from the pregnant minor.

• Clarifies legal authority for minors in situations where parental figures cannot be reached.

• Aims to ensure timely access to essential pregnancy-related medical care for minors.

Signed by Governor on April 9. Takes effect July 1, 2026.