Substitute Senate Bill No. 1368 proposes significant amendments to the procedures for notifying parents and guardians in child custody cases, particularly concerning hearings for the removal of a parent as guardian. The bill repeals and replaces subsection (b) of section 45a-609, mandating that notice of the hearing be provided at least ten days in advance to the Commissioner of Children and Families, both parents, and the minor if they are over twelve years old. New requirements for the notice include information on reporting suspected child abuse, clarifications on the differences between guardianship and foster care, and the right to legal representation. Additionally, if a parent's whereabouts are unknown, notice may be given by publication. The bill also repeals and substitutes section 45a-610, outlining the conditions under which the Probate Court may remove a parent as guardian, ensuring that proper notice has been given or a waiver filed.

Moreover, the bill establishes a working group to study and recommend improvements to statutes and procedures related to Probate Court guardianship proceedings. This group will consist of various stakeholders, including representatives from the Probate Court and the Department of Children and Families, as well as individuals with personal experience in guardianship matters. The working group is required to submit a report by January 1, 2026, detailing its findings and recommendations. The bill is expected to incur costs ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 annually for the Probate Court Administration Fund due to the expanded notice requirements. The provisions of the bill are set to take effect on October 1, 2025, with the working group provisions effective immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
KID Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 175: