Passing a so-called parental bill of rights, legislation that enumerates many of the rights parents already have to direct their children’s upbringing and education, has been a top priority for New Hampshire Republicans this year.
But now, reproductive rights advocates are raising concerns that the legislation could stop minors from accessing health care such as contraception without their parents’ permission. That would be a new limitation in New Hampshire, according to Planned Parenthood of Northern New England.
“Taking away confidential birth control for teens jeopardizes their health and safety, is short-sighted, and ineffective,” Kayla Montgomery, vice president of public affairs for Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, said in a statement after a panel of House lawmakers advanced an updated version of Senate Bill 72 this week.
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New Hampshire law is currently silent on contraception for minors, which has meant in practice that providers can offer it, according to Planned Parenthood. Meanwhile, federal Title X programs require confidential care, including for teenagers, but New Hampshire lawmakers are poised to eliminate that program in the state.
Passing a parental bill of rights has also been a priority for Republican Governor Kelly A. Ayotte, and on Wednesday she indicated that parental consent for contraception wouldn’t be a dealbreaker.
“I do think it’s really important to have parents engaged in these decisions,” she said.
“For most parents, we want them to know what’s happening with their children so that they can help and guide them, make good decisions and support them in difficult situations,” she added.
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Ayotte said she supports contraception, but she believes parents can help their children get the medical care they need.
The teenage pregnancy rate in the US has been going down since the 1990s, reaching a historic low in 2022 of 13.5 births per 1,000 teenagers, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. New Hampshire had the lowest rate in the nation, at 4.6 births per 1,000 teenagers aged 15 to 19.
The full House will vote on SB 72 before the House and the Senate have an opportunity to reconcile any differences between the versions passed by each body. After that, lawmakers can send it to Ayotte’s desk.
This article first appeared in Globe NH | Morning Report, our free newsletter focused on the news you need to know about New Hampshire, including great coverage from the Boston Globe and links to interesting articles from other places. If you’d like to receive it via e-mail Monday through Friday, you can sign up here.
Amanda Gokee can be reached at amanda.gokee@globe.com. Follow her @amanda_gokee.