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S 7451

Prevents a judge from prohibiting a parent from undergoing a gender reassignment when making a determination in a child custody case

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brad Hoylman-Sigal and 5 co-sponsors

Bill S 7451 protects parents undergoing gender reassignment from custody-related restrictions, ensuring their rights and focusing on children's best interests without bias.

REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
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Bill Summary · S 7451

Summary of Bill S 7451

Bill Overview

Bill Number: S 7451
Title: Prevents a judge from prohibiting a parent from undergoing a gender reassignment when making a determination in a child custody case
Status: Referred to Judiciary
Introduced: April 16, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of Bill S 7451 is to ensure that a judge cannot restrict a parent's ability to undergo gender reassignment surgery or treatment when making decisions regarding child custody. The bill aims to protect the rights of parents undergoing gender transition and to prevent discrimination based on gender identity in custody determinations.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibition on Judicial Restrictions: The bill explicitly states that judges are not permitted to prohibit a parent from undergoing gender reassignment as part of their custody decision-making process.
  • Focus on Best Interests of the Child: While the bill does not alter the fundamental principle that custody decisions must be made in the best interests of the child, it emphasizes that a parent's gender identity and transition should not be a factor that negatively impacts custody outcomes.

Affected Parties

  • Parents Undergoing Gender Transition: The bill directly affects parents who are undergoing or wish to undergo gender reassignment, ensuring that their rights are protected in custody cases.
  • Judicial System: The bill will require judges to adapt their considerations in custody cases, focusing on the child's welfare without bias against a parent's gender identity.
  • Children in Custody Cases: The bill indirectly affects children involved in custody disputes by promoting a more inclusive and equitable approach to custody determinations.

Legislative Timeline

  • April 16, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on Children and Families.
  • May 29, 2025: First report calendar (CAL.1513).
  • June 4, 2025: Second report calendar.
  • June 5, 2025: Advanced to third reading.
  • June 9, 2025: Passed in the Senate and delivered to the Assembly, where it was referred to the Judiciary Committee.

Related Bills

Bill S 7451 is related to several prior-session bills, including:
- S 506
- S 2758
- S 3492
- S 97
- S 432
- S 996
- S 5402

These related bills may address similar issues regarding parental rights, gender identity, and custody determinations.

Conclusion

Bill S 7451 represents a significant step towards protecting the rights of parents undergoing gender transition in custody cases. By preventing judicial discrimination based on gender identity, the bill aims to create a more equitable legal framework for custody determinations that prioritize the best interests of children while respecting the rights of parents.

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

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