MO HB2042

Allows courts to grant reasonable grandparent visitation rights when parents file for dissolution of marriage, one parent is deceased, the child has resided with the grandparent for at least six months within a twenty-four month period, or a grandparent is unreasonably denied visitation for more than ninety days.

Prohibits grandparents from filing for visitation under the ninety-day denial provision when the child's natural parents are legally married to each other and living together with the child.

Requires courts to determine that grandparent visitation is in the child's best interest and does not endanger the child's physical health or emotional development before ordering visitation; establishes a rebuttable presumption that married parents living together know what is in the child's best interest.

Allows courts to appoint a guardian ad litem (licensed attorney) to represent the child's interests in grandparent visitation proceedings, with reasonable fees awarded by the court.

Permits courts to order home studies, consult with the child regarding preferences, allow grandparents to intervene in dissolution actions on visitation issues, and award reasonable attorneys fees to the prevailing party.