California lawmakers will consider 4 proposals to update the Family Code when they come back from summer recess.
There is no denying that the “traditional” family has been drastically redefined in California and in America as a whole. Recently, steps were taken to update at least one aspect of the California Family Code to reflect this reality when the definition of marriage was revised to contain gender-neutral language. However it appears there is still much work to be done to make sure family law covers all the needs of modern families. Here are 4 family law bills that legislators will consider when they come back from summer break.
Sperm Donors & Surrogates: Following a high-profile case involving a sperm-donating actor and his former girlfriend, the issue of rights for sperm donors and surrogates got thrown into the spotlight. Previously it was assumed that sperm donors, egg donors, and surrogates would not want parental rights and responsibilities and this was specified in the law. Now, proposed bill AB2344 seeks to create methods for donors to clarify their wishes.
Birth Certificate Update: Currently, California birth certificates have a spot for the mother and the father of the child. AB 1951 would change this so that the certificates only ask for the names of two parents. This would provide a gender-neutral option to accommodate same-sex couples.
Rights for Adult Children: The power struggle between Casey Kasem’s new wife and his children during the last months of his life turned into a virtual media circus, with first the radio icon and then his remains allegedly going missing. In response to this high-profile case and other factors, AB2034 has been introduced to allow adult children to petition for visitation rights that would enable them to see their parents, even over the objections of the parents’ spouses or caretakers.
Grandparents Rights: Grandparents are allowed to petition for visitation rights when they have a strong emotional bond with their grandchildren and the loss of this bond would be detrimental to the children’s well-being. Typically, grandparents rights are sought in connection with a divorce, but AB 1628 would make it easier for grandparents to secure visitation rights when parents are still married if one parent is incarcerated or institutionalized.
If you have questions about existing family law, or about how proposed changes may affect your family situation, please do not hesitate to contact The Law Office of Torrence L. Howell. Free consultations are available.