HCS SB 348 -- GUARDIANSHIP AND ADOPTION

SPONSOR:  Sims (Barry)

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass by consent" by the Committee
on Children, Families and Health by a vote of 13 to 0.

This substitute allows for the termination of guardianship in
certain circumstances.  Guardianship may be terminated if the
court finds that a parent is fit, suitable, and able to assume
guardianship duties and it is in the best interests of the minor.

The substitute also requires courts to expedite the placement
for adoption of children who are under the prior and continuing
jurisdiction of juvenile court.  The 6-month custody requirement
prior to finalizing adoption is waived if the child is under the
prior and continuing jurisdiction of the juvenile court and the
adoptive parent is the current foster parent.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that the intent is to reunite a
minor and a parent if the court finds the parent is able and the
reunion is in the best interest of the minor.

Testifying for the bill was Senator Sims.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Joseph Deering, Legislative Analyst

Missouri House of Representatives
Last Updated November 26, 2001 at 11:47 am