Bill > SB89

This bill amends Kentucky law to establish clearer guidelines for courts when determining grandparent visitation rights, focusing on the "best interests of the child." It outlines specific factors a judge must consider, such as maintaining an existing relationship, the child's preferences if mature enough, the mental and physical health of all involved, the motivations of the adults, and any history of abuse or neglect. The bill also clarifies that once visitation is granted, it generally won't be affected by the termination of the parent's rights, unless it's not in the child's best interest. Furthermore, if a parent is deceased, there's a presumption that grandparent visitation is in the child's best interest if the grandparent can prove a significant and ongoing relationship, defined by criteria like the child residing with them, them being a regular caregiver, or having frequent contact. The bill also makes conforming changes to another statute (KRS 620.090) related to child custody and dependency cases, ensuring that if custody is granted to a grandparent, the court will consider visitation for any other grandparent in accordance with the new provisions.

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/26RS/sb89.html