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PA HB138
Bill
Status
9/4/2025
Primary Sponsor
Rick Krajewski
Click for details
AI Summary
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Parental rights cannot be terminated solely on the basis of parental incarceration, adding this protection to existing prohibitions against termination based on environmental factors like inadequate housing or income
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Parental incarceration exceeding 15 months may qualify as a "compelling reason" for county agencies to delay filing termination petitions, provided the parent makes feasible efforts to comply with family service plans and maintain a meaningful role in the child's life
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Termination of parental rights during incarceration is still permitted when otherwise necessitated by the needs and welfare of the child
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Amends Title 23 (Domestic Relations) and Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes
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Takes effect 60 days after enactment
Legislative Description
In proceedings prior to petition to adopt, further providing for grounds for involuntary termination; and, in juvenile matters, further providing for disposition of dependent child.
Last Action
Referred to Children & Youth
9/4/2025