The bill S.13, introduced by Senator Hashim, aims to amend the current law regarding the termination of parental rights in adoption proceedings. Specifically, it reinstates the court's ability to consider whether a person asserting parental rights has made reasonable and consistent payments for the support of the minor child when determining if termination of parental rights is in the child's best interests. This is particularly relevant for cases involving minors over six months of age, where the court will evaluate various factors, including the respondent's financial contributions, communication, and willingness to assume custody.

The proposed amendments to 15A V.S.A. 3-504 include the insertion of language that emphasizes the importance of financial support in the court's decision-making process. The new legal language specifies that the court shall consider a respondent's failure to make reasonable and consistent payments, in accordance with their financial means, as a relevant factor in determining parental responsibility. Additionally, the bill states that it will take effect upon passage, ensuring that these considerations are promptly integrated into the legal framework governing adoption and parental rights.