Connecticut House Bill HB06894

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/17
• Refer: 1/25/17

Caption

An Act Concerning The Care And Custody Of A Child With Specialized Needs.

Impact

The bill seeks to amend chapter 815t of the general statutes to create a framework under which parents are not stripped of custody while they navigate the often complex service systems associated with their children's needs. This is significant as it aims to maintain the family unit and provide stability for children during critical times, ensuring that they have the necessary support from their parents while receiving specialized care.

Summary

House Bill 06894, titled 'An Act Concerning The Care And Custody Of A Child With Specialized Needs,' is designed to ensure that parents of children with specialized needs can retain custody of their child while accessing necessary services. The legislation acknowledges the unique challenges faced by families with such children, aiming to protect their rights during times when they seek assistance. It emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in the care and decision-making processes related to the child's upbringing and services.

Contention

While the intent of HB 06894 is to strengthen familial ties during challenging circumstances, potential points of contention may arise regarding the definitions of 'specialized needs' and the extent of the services that are deemed adequate. Stakeholders may have differing opinions on how best to balance parental rights with the needs of the child, particularly in cases where child welfare may be concerned. Advocates for child welfare may call for safeguards to be in place to ensure that custodial rights do not interfere with the child's safety and well-being.