SB 348

Bill Subjects

Abstract

Provides that an individual is a grandparent for purposes of the grandparent visitation statute if the individual is, or was at any time, the: (1) parent of a parent of the child; (2) adoptive parent of a parent of the child; or (3) parent of an adoptive parent of the child. Provides that a paternal grandparent of a child does not have standing to seek grandparent visitation if the child's father has not established paternity in relation to the child. (Under current law, such a grandparent has standing to seek grandparent visitation, but may not be awarded grandparent visitation.) Provides that in determining whether grandparent visitation is in the best interests of a child, the court may consider whether the child's parent has prevented the grandparent from having meaningful contact with the child due to estrangement of the relationship between the parent and the grandparent. Removes a requirement that a petition to seek grandparent visitation must be filed before the adoption of the child. Provides that a court may modify an order granting or denying grandparent visitation only if modification would serve the best interests of the child. Provides conditions under which standing to seek grandparent visitation survives: (1) establishment of the paternity of the child; and (2) the adoption of the child by certain family members. Provides that grandparent visitation awarded before adoption of the child by certain family members does not survive the adoption if neither of the child's parents has parental rights at the time of the adoption. Removes the requirement that a grandparent must be notified of a grandchild's pending adoption by a family member. Makes conforming amendments.