CT State Rep. Kokoruda Supports Grandparents Visitation Law

From CT Rep Kokoruda: State Representative Noreen Kokoruda this week hailed the passage of legislation that would seek to establish increased rights for grandparents upon demonstrating to the court that clear and convincing circumstances support the granting of such visitation.

The proposal, H.B. 7244, An Act Concerning A Grandparent’s Right To Visitation With His Or Her Grandchild seeks to expand grandparent visitation rights. The measure would allow a grandparent the right of visitation with a minor child

Current law in the state of Connecticut provides no legal means for grandparents to have visitation without the parents’ consent. The current standard for a grandparent to legally establish visitation falls within CGS Section 46-59 which requires a “parent-like relationship” to exist between the grandparent and grandchild. This type of relationship can be difficult to demonstrate to the court, especially if the parents involved are actively working to maintain a separation between the grandparents and grandchildren. Also of concern is that current law shows no regard for the wishes of a parent who has passed away.

“When making decisions related to children, grandparents can play a significant role in improving the quality of life for their grandchildren, they often help raise grandchildren or even serve as great role models,” said Rep. Kokoruda. “We unfortunately have such an issue with parental alienation in our world today, which is truly a form of child abuse; grandparent alienation is sadly a part of this problem as well. This proposal seeks to protect children and grandparents against alienation.”

“This is an important bill,” Kokoruda added. “As a Grandparent myself, this proposal acknowledges that grandparents are critical members of family units. Oftentimes grandparents are the ones that end up not being able to see their grandchildren and this is unacceptable. This relationship is important for all grandparents and even more critical for children.”

The bill passed the House of Representatives 143-4 on Monday, June 5 and now awaits a vote in the Senate.

The legislative session adjourns at midnight on June 7th.

Image Courtesy of CT Rep Kokoruda