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 Utah, the legal authority to consent to medical treatments, procedures, and vaccinations for minor children typically rests with their parents or legal guardians. Utah Code Section 76-10-505 allows minors to consent to medical treatment if they are married, a parent, emancipated, or if the treatment is for certain conditions such as sexually transmitted diseases, substance abuse, or mental health issues. Additionally, Utah law permits minors of a certain age to consent to their own health care in some situations without parental consent. For example, Utah Code Section 26-39-102 allows minors 18 years of age or older to consent to immunizations. However, for most medical decisions, including vaccinations, parental or guardian consent is required for minors under 18. It's important to note that there may be specific circumstances or emergencies where consent may be implied or not required, and these situations are typically governed by additional statutes and case law.