Connecticut Senate Bill SB00213

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/19
• Refer: 1/23/19

Caption

An Act Concerning The Utilization Of Grandparents As A Child Placement Option.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would significantly influence state laws governing child welfare and placements. The Department of Children and Families would now be required to prioritize grandparents, rather than defaulting to foster care arrangements. This change is expected to promote familial connections and reduce the emotional and psychological toll associated with foster care placements. By facilitating placements with grandparents, the bill aims to ensure children remain within their family networks, which may contribute positively to their development and stability.

Summary

SB00213 is an act introduced to prioritize the utilization of grandparents as a child placement option when a child is at risk of being placed with a foster parent. The bill seeks to amend the existing chapter related to child welfare in the state, aiming to enhance family support systems by recognizing the importance of grandparents in providing stable and familiar environments for children in need. The proposal reflects a growing recognition of the role extended family members can play in safeguarding a child's wellbeing.

Contention

While the intent of SB00213 is to strengthen family ties during child placements, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of grandparents as caregivers in all circumstances. Questions could arise about whether placing a child with grandparents is always in the child's best interest, particularly if the grandparents are themselves facing challenges such as age or health issues. As such, this debate might evoke differing opinions among child welfare advocates, lawmakers, and community stakeholders about the effectiveness and feasibility of prioritizing grandparents in all child placement scenarios.