Maggie Hassan

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, March 10, 2008
Contact: Senator Kathy Sgambati (603) 271-3074

SENATE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS PASSAGE OF ADULT INVOLVEMENT BILL

CONCORD - The Senate Health and Human Services Committee voted 4-1 today to send a bill to the full Senate that would ensure that young teenagers facing an unexpected pregnancy get information and support from a trained counselor.

Senate Bill 527 would require clinics and doctors to provide information and counseling for pregnant teens under age 17 as they grapple with the decisions that follow from an unintended pregnancy. Where appropriate, counselors would encourage teens to speak to their parents or other family.

"This legislation is not about limiting choice or placing obstacles in the path of young women. It does not require parental notification. It mirrors best practices in most of our state's doctor offices and clinics. It's about making sure an adult is involved in protecting the health and safety of our adolescents," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton), who sponsored the bill.

The legislation has the support of Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, the largest reproductive health care organization in New Hampshire. It is co-sponsored by senators Bob Odell, Maggie Hassan, Jacalyn Cilley, Deborah Reynolds, Joseph Foster, and Betsi DeVries.

The committee members were not unanimous in their support for the legislation but agreed the bill deserved to advance to the Senate floor for a full discussion.

-30-