Connecticut House Bill HB05432

Connecticut 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/10
• Refer: 3/3/10

Caption

An Act Concerning The Department Of Children And Families.

Impact

The implications of HB 5432 on state law are significant, especially concerning the treatment of parents who are victims of domestic violence. The bill establishes a presumption that it is in the child's best interest to remain with a parent who is a domestic violence victim, requiring clear evidence to rebut this presumption. Such provisions are designed to protect vulnerable parents and ensure that their rights are considered in custody arrangements, promoting a more supportive judicial approach in domestic violence cases.

Summary

House Bill 5432 seeks to amend various statutes related to the Department of Children and Families, specifically targeting the processes surrounding child custody and support issues. One of the key objectives of the bill is to simplify the modification of support orders, allowing the Department to request changes on behalf of parents, particularly those whose children are considered to be part of families with service needs. This is intended to enhance the effectiveness of support services and ensure that they align with the Department's service goals.

Contention

While HB 5432 aims to provide clarity and support for families in need, there are points of contention surrounding its provisions. Critics may argue that the bill could unintentionally complicate matters by introducing additional bureaucratic steps or that the presumption of custody could be misused in situations where it may not be in the child's best interest. Additionally, stakeholders may have differing views on how effectively the Department can balance the need for family support with the rights of all parents involved, particularly in contested custody cases.