By Daniel Stefanski |
Arizona’s Democrat governor has vetoed legislation that would have strengthened parental rights in the state.
On Tuesday, Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed HB 2183, which would have “entitle[d] parents with the right to receive from a healthcare entity equivalent access to any electronic portal or other healthcare delivery platform for their minor child” – according to the overview from the Arizona House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by State Representative Julie Willoughby.
Hobbs was brief in her veto letter to House Speaker Ben Toma, writing, “The measure as written could put the health and safety of vulnerable Arizonans at risk.”
Willoughby, a Republican, was greatly disappointed by the governor’s action. In a statement released after the veto, the first-term lawmaker said, “I am deeply dismayed by Governor Hobbs’ decision to veto HB 2183. This was important legislation designed to assist Arizona families, particularly those with children suffering from chronic diseases, access vital medical records, which are often required for arranging specialty follow-up appointments, surgeries, or consultations with out-of-state specialists. The governor’s veto means that families will continue to face unnecessary hurdles in obtaining the critical information they need, precisely when they need it most, especially during urgent health crises. This decision not only undermines the welfare of vulnerable families but also impedes their access to necessary healthcare information.”
According to Willoughby’s press release, her bill would have increased the protections afforded to parents in the Arizona parents’ bill of rights by “guaranteeing parents’ equal access to healthcare delivery platforms like online medical portals to care for their minor children.”
Though upset with the final outcome of her proposal, Willoughby made sure to thank her legislative partners. She added, “House Majority Leader Leo Biasiucci and Representative Selina Bliss have been remarkable in supporting this bill and I’m grateful for their teamwork on the bill.”
Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
