Connecticut Senate Bill SB00464

Connecticut 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/25
• Refer: 1/10/25

Caption

An Act Requiring The Department Of Children And Families To Hold A Reunification Hearing Within Fourteen Days Of The Recommendation Of Unification By A Licensed Psychologist.

Impact

The proposed bill is expected to have substantial implications for state laws governing child welfare and custody processes. It aims to amend Title 17a of the general statutes, directly influencing the operations of the DCF. Proponents of the bill suggest that the stipulated timeline for holding hearings will help reduce the emotional and financial strain on families enduring lengthy custody cases. Additionally, it reflects a growing recognition of the need for mental health professionals’ input in custody decisions, thus formalizing the role of licensed psychologists in these sensitive situations.

Summary

SB00464 is a legislative proposal aimed at expediting the process of reunification for children placed in temporary custody by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). The bill mandates that DCF must hold a reunification hearing within fourteen days of receiving a recommendation for reunification from a licensed psychologist. This bill emphasizes the importance of timely decision-making in cases of child custody, which can significantly impact family dynamics and a child's well-being. By stipulating a clear timeline, the bill seeks to address potential delays that can occur in the reunification process, ensuring that families are reunited more swiftly when deemed appropriate by a professional.

Contention

However, the bill may encounter areas of contention among legislators and stakeholders. Critics may argue that compressing the timeline for reunification hearings at times could undermine comprehensive evaluations needed for safety and welfare considerations. Concerns regarding thoroughness versus expediency might surface, particularly from child advocacy groups who prioritize extensive checks over quick reunification. The effectiveness of such a time constraint could be debated, especially in complicated cases where multiple factors contribute to a child's welfare and family readiness for reunification.