Bill > A04978

This bill amends the Domestic Relations Law and Family Court Act to expand visitation rights for great-grandparents in situations where one or both parents of a minor child are deceased. Currently, grandparents could apply to the supreme court or family court for visitation rights under certain circumstances, and this bill now explicitly includes great-grandparents in those provisions. The legislation allows great-grandparents to initiate a special proceeding or habeas corpus action to seek visitation rights with their great-grandchildren. When making such determinations, the court will continue to prioritize the best interests of the child. The bill also requires that in cases involving children under the care of social services, the great-grandparents must serve a copy of their visitation application on the social services official and the child's attorney, who will have an opportunity to be heard. This expansion of visitation rights recognizes the potential importance of maintaining familial connections for children who have lost one or both parents. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4978