Bill Allows Minors to be Examined, Tested

clergy
The House of Representatives approved on Friday a bill that would allow the Department of Health to test and examine minors for communicable diseases including sexually transmitted diseases without the consent of their parents.
The bill would also allow DOH to create new rules requiring non residents traveling to the territory to provide proof of vaccination from communicable diseases and all other health afflictions the department may deem necessary for protecting public health and welfare.
Testimonies by members of the HIV/AIDS Advisory Board which includes church pastors and priests, at a hearing on the bill last week indicated that there have been cases where minors have wanted to be tested or examined for certain communicable diseases but DOH couldn’t because they dint have their parents approval.
The witnesses said this usually happens after they conduct outreach in schools.
Deputy Director of Health Fara Utu testified that before treatment is administered to minors found with any diseases, parents will be brought in and informed of their child’s condition.  She said no treatment can be done unless the parents give their approval.
Members of the clergy on the Board,  Rev  Iakopo Seumalo and Fr Kelemete Puaauli said they support the bill because it will help protect lives.
During the bill’s third reading Friday,  Rep Vaetasi Tuumolimoli Moliga asked that the bill be left with committee for further review.  His concern was that minors will leave their parents out of important decision making affecting their health.
He and Fofo Rep. Andra Samoa cast the two nay votes but the bill was approved 12-2.
Rep Samoa felt that there needed to be a legal review of the bill to ensure that parental rights for their minor children are not compromised.
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