Delegates hear emotional testimony for expanded grandparent visitation rights

Delegate Jackie T. Addison introduced HB25 to update visitation standards so courts can better account for the caregiving role grandparents play during family transitions. "This bill reinforces a principle that decisions affecting children should be guided primarily by what serves the children's best interest," Addison said.

Multiple grandparents and caregivers testified in favor. Audrey Carter described providing primary care for two grandsons and said the bill would protect relationships when a parent is absent or unstable. Jeanette Gonzalez Graham, a reentry leader and grandmother, described being cut off by a birth parent and urged statutory tools to preserve extended-family ties.

Committee members raised Troxell v. Granville (U.S. Supreme Court precedent) and noted that courts give deference to fit parents' decisions; members encouraged the sponsor to consider narrowly tailored amendments that preserve parental authority while identifying exceptional circumstances that justify grandparent access. The sponsor signaled openness to amendment and invited further drafting to address legal standards and children's voices.

No vote was taken at the hearing; the bill sponsor said she will continue discussions and may propose revisions to respond to constitutional concerns while preserving grandparents' role.