HI SR61

Requests Hawaii State Judiciary and Department of Human Services not use a parent's blindness as basis for denying or restricting custody and visitation in family or dependency law cases when determined to be in the child's best interest.

Requests the agencies not use a prospective parent's blindness as basis for denying adoption or an individual's blindness as basis for denying foster care or guardianship when determined to be in the child's best interest.

Requires clear and convincing evidence of endangerment to the child's health, safety, or welfare if blindness is alleged to have detrimental impact, placing burden of proof on the party raising the allegation.

Requests blind parents or prospective parents be given opportunity to demonstrate how supportive parenting services can address raised concerns.

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