MS HB302

Extends grandparent visitation rights to include great-grandparents in Mississippi child custody and visitation proceedings under sections 93-16-1 through 93-16-7.

Great-grandparents may petition for visitation rights when a parent dies, custody is awarded, or parental rights are terminated, with the same standards as grandparents.

Great-grandparents not authorized to petition under primary circumstances may seek visitation if they established a viable relationship with the child and can demonstrate the visitation is in the child's best interests.

Defines "viable relationship" for great-grandparents as six months of financial support, one year of frequent visitation including overnight stays, or significant caregiving during a parent's incarceration or military duty.

Becomes effective July 1, 2020.