Bill safeguarding parental rights of Kentuckians with disabilities clears another hurdle
From left, Family Court Judge Marcus Vanover, Sen. Brandon Storm, R-London, and Crystal Adams, director of the Division of Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities with the Kentucky Judicial Commission on Mental Health, address a legislative committee, Feb. 27, 2025. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Sarah Ladd)
FRANKFORT — A bill that would ensure Kentuckians cannot have parental rights removed or adoption petitions denied solely based on disability is almost to the legislative finish line.
Senate Bill 26, sponsored by Sen. Brandon Storm, R-London, passed the House Families and Children Committee unanimously Thursday morning.
Disability alone could not cost Kentuckians parental rights, chance to adopt if bill becomes law
Family Court Judge Marcus Vanover, a member of Kentucky Judicial Commission on Mental Health (KJCMH) and chief circuit judge in Lincoln, Pulaski and Rockcastle counties, cited case law that shows 'the need for change in Kentucky and to ensure that individuals with disabilities are not being wrongfully discriminated against on the sole basis of the disability.'
A 2022 Kentucky Supreme Court order established the commission, which 'is charged with exploring, recommending and implementing transformational changes to improve system wide responses to justice-involved individuals experiencing mental health needs, substance use, and/or intellectual and developmental disabilities,' according to the Kentucky Court of Justice.
This bill was a recommendation from the commission. It's already passed the Senate, where it originated. Now it can go to the House floor for a vote. If it passes there, it heads to Gov. Andy Beshear's desk for a signature or veto
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