Bill > S1219

This bill amends Section 39D of Chapter 119 of the Massachusetts General Laws to expand grandparental visitation rights in specific custody scenarios. Specifically, the bill allows courts to consider grandparent visitation rights when the state has custody of a minor or when a court has awarded temporary guardianship to a non-parent. Under this proposed change, courts may evaluate whether the minor has a preexisting relationship with a grandparent when determining if visitation would serve the child's best interests. Importantly, the bill clarifies that a preexisting relationship is not a mandatory requirement for granting visitation rights, which provides courts with more flexibility in making these determinations. This legislation aims to potentially increase opportunities for grandparents to maintain connections with grandchildren during complex custody situations, while still prioritizing the child's overall well-being and leaving the final decision to judicial discretion.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1219