This bill amends various sections of the Minnesota Statutes to enhance the rights of parents with disabilities in family law matters. It introduces supportive parenting services aimed at ensuring that a parent's disability does not serve as a basis for denying adoption, custody, or parenting time. Specifically, the bill stipulates that courts and agencies cannot deny a prospective parent's ability to adopt based solely on their disability, and any concerns regarding the parent's ability to care for a child must be substantiated with clear evidence. Additionally, if a court limits a parent's rights due to a disability, it must provide written findings explaining why supportive services could not be a reasonable accommodation.

The bill also clarifies the definitions of "disability" and "supportive parenting services," ensuring that parents with disabilities are offered opportunities to utilize these services to demonstrate their capability to provide for their child's safety and welfare. The amendments require courts to consider supportive services before making decisions that could negatively impact a parent's custody or visitation rights. The provisions of this bill will take effect on August 1, 2024, and will apply to all relevant legal proceedings initiated on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 259.53, 260C.201, 518.1751
1st Engrossment: 259.53, 260C.007, 260C.141, 518.1751