CT SB00297

Courts must order specific steps parents must take to facilitate return of a child or youth to their custody, or to maintain custody while under protective supervision, upon issuing any order in neglect/abuse cases

Commissioner of Children and Families may authorize trial home visits prior to revoking commitment orders when reunification is recommended, with 15 days advance notice to all parties and a motion for revocation required within 30 days of the visit commencing

Rebuttable presumption established that awarding guardianship or adoption to current caregivers or temporary custodians is in the child's best interest when commitment is revoked or parental rights terminated

Youth ages 18-21 who were committed to the Commissioner may remain in or voluntarily reenter care if enrolled full-time in secondary education, postsecondary/vocational programs, or commissioner-approved employment programs

Effective October 1, 2026, amending section 46b-129(j) of Connecticut General Statutes