HI HCR162

Request that Hawaii State Judiciary and Department of Human Services not use a parent's blindness as a basis for denying or restricting custody and visitation in family or dependency law cases when such arrangement is in the child's best interest.

Request that prospective parents' blindness not be used as a basis for denying participation in public or private adoption, or for denying foster care or guardianship placement when determined to be in the child's best interest.

Require the burden of proof be placed on the party alleging blindness has a detrimental impact on a child, requiring evidence that behaviors endanger or will likely endanger the child's health, safety, or welfare.

Request that blind parents or prospective parents be given the opportunity to demonstrate how supportive parenting services can address any raised concerns.

Direct certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Chief Justice, Administrative Director of the Courts, and Director of Human Services.