Laws vary from state to state, but many states have laws (statutes) enacted by their state legislatures that determine which persons have the legal authority to consent to medical treatments, medical procedures, and vaccinations (also known as immunizations or inoculations) of minor children (generally under the age of 18).
In Florida, the legal authority to consent to medical treatments, procedures, and vaccinations for minor children typically rests with the parents or legal guardians. Florida law requires that a parent or guardian provide consent for most medical treatments for minors. However, there are exceptions where minors can consent to their own medical treatment, such as when they are legally emancipated, married, or a parent themselves. Additionally, Florida statutes allow for minors to consent to certain types of services without parental consent, including treatment for substance abuse, mental health services, and services related to sexual health, such as STI treatment and family planning. It's important to note that while parents generally have the authority to consent to vaccinations, there may be specific public health laws and school immunization requirements that could affect the administration of vaccines to minors.