WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 5240

Establishes procedures regarding orders of post-termination visitation and/or contact between a child and such child's parent

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jabari Brisport and 2 co-sponsors

Bill S 5240 establishes guidelines for post-termination visitation between children and parents, prioritizing the child's best interests while allowing potential ongoing relationships.

PRINT NUMBER 5240A
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 5240

Summary of Bill S 5240

Bill Number: S 5240
Title: Establishes procedures regarding orders of post-termination visitation and/or contact between a child and such child's parent
Status: PRINT NUMBER 5240A
Introduced: February 20, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 5240 aims to establish clear procedures for post-termination visitation and contact between a child and their parent after parental rights have been terminated. The intent of the bill is to provide a structured framework that ensures the child's best interests are prioritized while allowing for potential ongoing relationships with parents, where appropriate.

Key Provisions

  • Post-Termination Visitation Orders: The bill outlines specific criteria and processes for courts to follow when determining whether to grant visitation or contact between a child and a parent after the termination of parental rights.

  • Best Interest Standard: Any decision regarding visitation must be made in accordance with the best interests of the child, ensuring that the child's emotional and psychological well-being is the primary consideration.

  • Judicial Discretion: The bill grants judges the discretion to consider various factors, including the nature of the parent-child relationship prior to termination, the child's current living situation, and any potential risks to the child.

  • Review Process: The legislation establishes a review process for visitation orders, allowing for modifications based on changing circumstances or the child's needs.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Children: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are children who have experienced the termination of parental rights. The bill seeks to provide them with opportunities for continued contact with their biological parents when deemed appropriate.

  • Parents: Biological parents whose rights have been terminated may have the opportunity to maintain a relationship with their children under specific conditions set forth by the court.

  • Judicial System: Courts will be tasked with implementing the new procedures, which may require additional training and resources to ensure compliance with the bill's provisions.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Legislative Actions:

    • February 20, 2025: The bill was introduced and referred to the Committee on Children and Families.
    • May 13, 2025: The bill was amended and recommitted to the Committee on Children and Families, leading to the printing of version 5240A.

  • Related Bills: This bill is related to several prior-session bills, including S 6357, A 6700, S 8153, S 6720, and A 4940 (a companion bill), indicating ongoing legislative interest in the topic of parental rights and child welfare.

Conclusion

Bill S 5240 represents a significant step towards establishing a formalized process for post-termination visitation and contact between children and their parents. By prioritizing the best interests of the child and providing judicial guidelines, the bill aims to balance the complexities of family dynamics in cases of parental rights termination.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.