CT HB07244

Repeals and replaces Section 46b-59 to establish two separate pathways for visitation petitions: a general visitation statute for any person and a specific statute for grandparents under certain family circumstances.

Grandparents may petition for visitation when at least one parent is deceased, parents are divorced, or parents are living separately; court must find parents are unreasonably depriving visitation (defined as denial exceeding 90 days), awarding visitation will not interfere with parent-child relationships, and either parents are unfit or compelling circumstances exist.

For all visitation petitioners, requires showing a parent-like relationship exists and denial would cause "real and significant harm" (neglect or being uncared for) by clear and convincing evidence; court sets terms including visitation schedule, overnight visitation allowance, and other conditions in the child's best interest.

Visitation rights do not create parental rights, do not prevent custodial parent relocation, and may be terminated by court order; courts may order payment of fees and attorney costs based on party's financial ability.

Effective date: October 1, 2017.