Family & Sexuality

HB 1059 (Grall) would designate the "Parents' Bill of Rights", bringing together in a single statute the various parental rights that currently exist in law. The bill would highlight the role of parents by clearly outlining the rights parents have in the upbringing, education and care of their children. The bill is poised for a vote of the full House on Monday, March 9.

Legislation that strengthens protections for vulnerable elderly persons who receive court appointed guardians was passed unanimously by first committees of reference in both the House and the Senate. SB 994 (Passidomo) and HB 709 (Burton) make a number of changes to improve guardianship laws in the state with respect to conflict of interest, compensation and appointment of guardians. Additionally, the bills require that guardians may not consent to or authorize do-not-resuscitate orders for their wards without court approval. The FCCB indicated its support for the measure at both committee meetings.