Overview: HD 1664, "An Act prohibiting discrimination against adults with disabilities in Family and Juvenile Court proceedings", is a proposed bill introduced on November 29, 2025.
Purpose and Intent: The bill aims to address the disproportionate challenges and barriers faced by adults with disabilities in family and juvenile court proceedings, such as child custody, visitation, and termination of parental rights cases. The legislation seeks to ensure that these individuals are provided with the necessary accommodations and support to meaningfully participate in the legal process.
Key Provisions:
- Prohibits discrimination against adults with disabilities in family and juvenile court proceedings
- Requires courts to provide reasonable accommodations, such as assistive technology or interpretation services, to enable the full participation of adults with disabilities
- Mandates the appointment of guardians ad litem to represent the interests of adults with disabilities in relevant court proceedings
- Establishes training requirements for judges and court personnel on working with individuals with disabilities
Affected Parties and Impacts: The bill would directly benefit adults with disabilities who are involved in family and juvenile court proceedings, helping to ensure their rights and interests are protected. It could also have broader impacts by promoting more inclusive and accessible legal systems for individuals with disabilities.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: As a proposed bill, HD 1664 would need to progress through the standard legislative process, including committee hearings and votes in both chambers of the state legislature, before potentially being signed into law by the governor.