Protecting Our Daughters: The Need for the Vermont Parental Notification Law

Abstract:     
This article outlines the provisions of pending Vermont legislation requiring parental notification prior to the performance of an abortion on a minor. It describes the current national consensus in favor of parental involvement laws, and examines the arguments relating to the proposed passage of this law. The article reviews the federal cases addressing the constitutionality of parental involvement laws, as well as cases regarding parental involvement in other medical decisions. It examines the arguments of supporters and opponents of the Vermont legislation, and concludes that parental notification laws benefit minors through improved medical care and protection from sexual assault. The inclusion of a judicial bypass procedure insures the availability of a safe and effective means of protecting the few minors for whom parental involvement is not appropriate.

Accepted Paper Series