VT S0013

Reinstates courts' ability to consider whether a parent asserting parental rights has made reasonable and consistent child support payments when deciding whether to terminate those rights in adoption proceedings

Amends 15A V.S.A. § 3-504 to add failure to make support payments (in accordance with financial means) as a factor courts may consider when evaluating parental responsibility

Applies to minors over six months of age where the respondent parent did not exercise parental responsibility for at least six months before the petition was filed

Other existing factors courts may consider include failure to regularly communicate or visit with the child, and failure to demonstrate ability and willingness to assume custody

Takes effect upon passage