A new legislative proposal, House Bill 2804, is set to reshape family law in Minnesota by modifying visitation rights for minor children. Introduced on March 26, 2025, the bill aims to enhance the ability of grandparents and great-grandparents to maintain relationships with their grandchildren, particularly in cases where a parent has passed away.

The bill amends existing statutes to ensure that if a minor child has a substantial established relationship with a grandparent or great-grandparent, these relatives can petition the district court for reasonable visitation rights. This change is significant as it recognizes the importance of extended family connections in a child's life, especially during times of loss. The court will be required to grant visitation if it is deemed to be in the best interests of the child and does not interfere with the parent-child relationship.

Key provisions of the bill also include a stipulation that visitation rights can be granted to the parents and grandparents of a deceased parent, provided that such visitation is in the child's best interests and does not pose a risk to their emotional or physical well-being. This dual approach aims to balance the rights of extended family members with the need to protect the child's welfare.

While the bill has garnered support for its focus on family unity, it is not without controversy. Critics argue that expanding visitation rights could complicate custody arrangements and potentially disrupt the stability of the child's environment. Proponents, however, emphasize the emotional support that grandparents and great-grandparents can provide during difficult times.

As House Bill 2804 moves through the legislative process, its implications could resonate deeply within Minnesota families, potentially setting a precedent for how family law addresses the rights of extended family members in the context of child welfare. The bill is currently under review by the Committee on Judiciary Finance and Civil Law, with discussions expected to continue in the coming weeks.