Bill > HB2505

This bill amends Missouri law regarding child custody to give priority to grandparents when a child is placed in the custody of a third party, provided it is in the child's best interest. The law, which outlines how courts determine custody arrangements, now explicitly states that if a court finds it necessary to award custody to someone other than a parent (referred to as "third-party custody"), and a grandparent is willing and able to take custody, that grandparent should be given preference over other non-parental relatives or unrelated individuals. This change aims to ensure that if a child cannot be with their parents, placement with a grandparent is considered first, as long as it aligns with the child's overall well-being.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2505&year=2026&code=R