AL HB24

Defines "blindness" as central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correcting lens, or a visual field no greater than 20 degrees, including degenerative conditions expected to result in blindness.

Prohibits blindness from serving as a basis to deny or restrict visitation, custody, adoption, foster care, or guardianship when such arrangement is otherwise in the child's best interest.

Requires parties alleging a blind parent's blindness has detrimental impact on a child to prove the behaviors endanger the child's health, safety, or welfare and that no reasonable supportive parenting services can address the concerns.

Allows courts to require supportive parenting services (non-visual techniques and alternative methods enabling blind parents to discharge parental responsibilities successfully) with periodic review of whether continued services are necessary.

Became effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor; passed House April 23, 2019 and Senate May 21, 2019.