Senate approves family health bill to create a universal consent form for home‑visiting programs

The Senate unanimously advanced second substitute Senate Bill 141, a measure sponsored on the floor to create a universal consent form managed by the Division of Family Health that would let families opt in to information sharing across programs — with safeguards and revocation options.

On the floor the sponsor explained the bill seeks to simplify access to home visiting and family health services by allowing a single, division‑managed consent form so families need not sign separate forms at every point of contact. The sponsor said the measure complies with HIPAA and includes express revocation language (lines 45–50 in the draft), making clear individuals can revoke consent and limit what types of information may be shared.

Sponsor remarks emphasized the bill’s aim to help high‑risk mothers and families faster access to services. After brief questions and waiver of summation, the body called the third‑reading vote. The second substitute SB 141 passed by roll call with 21 yea votes and 2 nay votes.

The bill directs the Division of Family Health to manage the universal consent form and to follow applicable privacy rules; implementation details and operations will be handled by the division.