Connecticut House Bill HB06174

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/15
• Refer: 1/22/15

Caption

An Act Concerning The Provision Of Special Needs Services And Mental Health Support Services To Parents Or Guardians In A Legal Dispute Involving The Care And Custody Of A Child.

Impact

The implementation of HB 6174 is expected to significantly impact how custody disputes are managed by ensuring that families receiving or needing special services are adequately supported. The law stipulates that once identified, coordination between the courts and these state agencies will be essential to guarantee that families receive necessary services for a minimum of three years from the date of the custody actions. This ongoing support aims to address not only the immediate needs of the child but also promotes long-term welfare and mental health stability for both the child and the guardians involved.

Summary

House Bill 6174 is designed to enhance the provision of special needs services and mental health support for parents or guardians involved in legal disputes regarding the care and custody of a child. This legislation mandates that upon the initiation of any custody-related action, the court must inquire whether the child is receiving any special needs or mental health support services. If such services are identified, the court is responsible for reporting this information to the appropriate state departments, specifically the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and the Department of Children and Families.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 6174 may address the complexities of a legal system that traditionally focuses heavily on legal parameters, potentially overlooking the psychological and emotional needs of the child and family. There may be concerns about the practical implications of enforcing such provisions, particularly regarding the resources available to state departments for outreach and support. Critics might argue the difficulty in streamlining services efficiently as well as ensuring compliance by the court system, highlighting potential strains on both judicial resources and agency capabilities.