New STD Testing Law in California

Gardasil

AB 499 allows children 12 years of age or older to seek medical care for the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases without the consent of parents, including vaccinations against human papillomavirus, or HPV.

The California Senate passed the billed recently on a 22-17 vote.  The Governor can take action on this bill between September 9th and October 9th.



This new law has created a lot discussion on the net about vaccinations.  Pharmaceutical giant Merck produces the vaccine, Gardasil, making it available to children 12 and older. 

AB 499 - Minors: Medical Care: Consent Bill (californiarcrc.org)