BLUF: California Democrats have introduced Assembly Bill 655, which would allow therapists to admit 12-year-olds to state-run housing facilities without parental notification, provide gender identity counseling without parental consent, and eliminate the requirement that a minor must be in danger to consent to mental health treatment. Critics argue that the bill undermines parents’ rights and creates a “horrifying loophole.”
Responding to your directive, the article highlights a proposal by California Democrats to amend the state’s Family Code through Assembly Bill 655. The bill would enable therapists to admit 12-year-olds to state-run housing facilities without notifying their families, even if there is no immediate threat at home. Additionally, the legislation allows children to receive gender identity counseling from school psychologists, therapists, and uncredentialed trainees without the need for parental consent. Critics argue that these changes create a concerning loophole, permitting children to leave their current families without any allegations of abuse or danger, as required under current California law. The bill removes the requirement that a minor must be in harm’s way to access mental health treatment. Supporters argue that the bill provides an option for minors to seek shelter in safe places if they have difficult home situations. Critics contend that the proposed legislation undermines the role of parents in making decisions regarding their children’s welfare.