The bill SB1501, titled "An Act Concerning Probate Court Operations," proposes significant amendments to the procedures and operations of Probate Courts in Connecticut. One of the key provisions allows parents or legal guardians to petition the court for the creation and filing of a birth certificate for their child if they are unable to provide the necessary information, with the requirement that this petition be made before the child's first birthday. The bill also extends the notification timeline for misconduct investigations from seven to fifteen business days and clarifies the procedures for reconsideration and modification of ex parte orders, ensuring that all interested parties are informed of any changes. Additionally, it introduces provisions for individuals filing appeals who cannot afford transcript costs, allowing them to submit an affidavit for coverage from the Probate Court Administration Fund.

Moreover, the bill streamlines adoption procedures by clarifying that applications must be filed in the Probate Court and specifying conditions under which the adoption of a minor child can proceed. It eliminates the requirement for duplicate filings of adoption applications and related reports to the Department of Children and Families, enhancing efficiency through the court's eFiling system. The bill also establishes a working group to address issues faced by conservators and modifies laws regarding tort claims against decedents' estates, allowing claims to proceed without prior rejection by the estate's fiduciary, while limiting recovery to existing insurance coverage. Notable deletions include the change from "Court of Probate" to "Probate Court," reflecting a modernization of terminology. Overall, the bill aims to improve the efficiency, clarity, and fairness of probate court operations while safeguarding the interests of children and families involved in these proceedings.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
JUD Joint Favorable:
File No. 741: