Bill > HB381

This bill modifies Missouri's child custody laws to explicitly prioritize grandparents when determining third-party custody arrangements. Specifically, the legislation amends existing law to specify that when a court is considering awarding custody to a third party (such as when both parents are deemed unfit or unable to care for a child), grandparents shall be given priority. The bill defines "third-party custody" as a legal arrangement where a non-parent is designated as a child's legal and physical custodian. Under the new provision, if no parent is suitable to have custody, the court must first consider grandparents before exploring other potential custodians. The change is intended to keep children within their family network when possible, with the overarching goal of ensuring the child's best interests are served. The bill maintains the existing requirement that any custody decision must be based on what is most beneficial for the child, taking into account factors like the child's relationship with potential guardians, the mental and physical health of involved parties, and the child's adjustment to home, school, and community.

Health and Social Services

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB381&year=2025&code=R