Senate unanimously passes Sanborn bill to help homeless youth in Maine

AUGUSTA — The Maine Senate unanimously passed legislation from Sen. Linda Sanborn, D-Gorham, that would make it easier for homeless youth to receive the health care services they need. LD 1275, “An Act To Support Access to Health Services for Homeless Youth in Maine,” received bipartisan support in an enactment vote Wednesday.

“Homeless youth often have an urgent need to access a health care or mental health provider,” said Sen. Sanborn. “This bill would eliminate an unnecessary barrier for vulnerable young people in Maine who are seeking help. I’m glad the Senate has taken such a strong stance in supporting it.”

Under current Maine law, minors must be living separately from their parents for at least 60 days before they can consent to their own medical, mental, dental or other health services. This bill would amend Maine law to allow minors to provide consent for all medical, mental, dental and other health counseling and services by proving that they are living separately and independent of parental support. The bill also adds a liability shield for health care providers.

The bill now goes to the desk of Gov. Janet Mills. The governor has 10 days to either sign the bill, veto it or allow it to become law without her signature.