SB 865
Relating to best interests of child standard
Take action
Record your position on this measure.
Sign in to record your position, submit testimony, or contact your legislator.
Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill establishes that the ‘best interests of the child’ must be the primary consideration in all decisions made by key state agencies and individuals, including the Department of Human Services, the court system, and guardian ad litems. It outlines a comprehensive assessment process to determine these interests, considering factors like a child’s safety, health, well-being, relationships, and educational needs. The bill also mandates that policies and practices align with this standard and provides for review and appeal of decisions that don’t prioritize the child’s best interests.
Key provisions
- Requires the ‘best interests of the child’ to be the paramount consideration in decisions by state agencies and individuals.
- Establishes a comprehensive assessment process for determining a child’s best interests, including factors like safety, health, and relationships.
- Mandates that all policies and procedures align with prioritizing the child’s best interests.
- Provides for review and appeal of decisions not consistent with the child’s best interests.
- Specifies that guardian ad litems must advocate solely for the child’s best interests.
- Includes a list of 13 specific factors to consider when assessing a child’s best interests.
- Requires consideration of reunification with the child’s family if consistent with the child’s best interests.
- Addresses history of abuse, neglect, or domestic violence.
Who is affected
- Children in state custody
- Parents of children in state custody
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
Submit yoursArguments opposed
Reasons to oppose this legislation.
No arguments opposed have been submitted.
Submit yours