Karen Matthee won't criminalize our doctors

This year, Rep. Mark Sauter voted for three separate bills that criminalize doctors for providing the best evidenced-based standard of care for their patients. The most controversial of these is SB 1329, which now requires youth 14 to 18 years old to obtain parental consent to access most medical care. It also requires providers to give a parent access to their minor children’s medical records in almost all circumstances. And the repercussions for non-compliance are severe.

Healthcare providers testified during the committee hearings regarding this bill. They all opposed this bill and outlined the harm it would cause. Doctors continue to argue that the bill will increase teen pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases, drug abuse, and mental health issues. 

In addition, law enforcement officials testified against this bill because they know it will hinder reports of incest and rape that occur within families.

Lastly, Gov. Brad Little cited these issues and more and asked for amendments in 2025 before signing the bill into law.

Unlike her opponent, Karen Matthee will never sign a bill that will cause harm, reduce a doctor's ability to do their jobs, and that will ultimately need to be re-written. That’s why I am voting for Karen Matthee on Nov. 5.

GALEN HILL

Sandpoint