An Act allowing certain minors to consent to shelter and receive supportive services

This bill allows unaccompanied minors aged 15 and older to consent to their own shelter and supportive services without parental permission, provided they meet specific criteria regarding homelessness or risk of homelessness. To qualify, the youth must not be in physical custody of a parent or guardian and must demonstrate a significant danger of experiencing homelessness due to factors such as prior homelessness, family conflict, or abuse. The legislation requires service providers to verify that the minor understands the benefits and risks of the services before allowing them to stay, while also mandating that providers register with the state, conduct background checks on staff, and attempt to contact the minor's parents or guardians within 72 hours of providing care. Additionally, the law permits a minor who is a parent to consent to services for their own child and sets conditions under which a provider may deny shelter if the minor provided false information or does not meet the eligibility requirements.