CT SB00323

Prohibits the Department of Children and Families from simultaneously pursuing both a reunification plan and a plan to terminate parental rights for the same parent and child.

Allows termination of parental rights only when the parent refuses to participate in a reunification plan.

Requires a court evidentiary hearing within 30 days to determine if reasonable efforts to reunify are not required, based on specific aggravated circumstances including child abandonment, severe abuse, sexual molestation, or prior termination of parental rights to a sibling.

Mandates the court approve a permanency plan within 30 days of determining reunification efforts are not required, with options including adoption, long-term foster care with relatives, guardianship transfer, or other permanent living arrangements.

Takes effect October 1, 2011.