We are revising our substance abuse impaired policy. Regarding FS 397.601 Voluntary admissions where juveniles can request voluntary admission for substance abuse, is there any prohibition for LEO to notify the parents? The language of the statute is below. The question has come up in two parts, are we obligate, or allowed by FS to notify the parent of their admission?
Hopefully they are rare, but how does your agency handle this? Any policy reference is appreciated.
The statute states:
(4)(a) The disability of minority for persons under 18 years of age is removed solely for the purpose of obtaining voluntary substance abuse impairment services from a licensed service provider, and consent to such services by a minor has the same force and effect as if executed by an individual who has reached the age of majority. Such consent is not subject to later disaffirmance based on minority.
(b) Except for purposes of law enforcement activities in connection with protective custody, the disability of minority is not removed if there is an involuntary admission for substance abuse services, in which case parental participation may be required as the court finds appropriate.
Thank you