Vetoed Parents' Rights Bill Returns to Legislature

None by KCPW

(KCPW News) Backers of a bill to limit how the legal doctrine of "in loco parentis" can be used to grant child custody and visitation rights say the changes won't hurt special cases involving grandparents or stepparents. But opponents fear a loophole could end up hurting children.

"I have a 9-year old stepdaughter to whom I provide love, emotional and financial support," says Harris Sondak. "If my wife were to die - say hit by a drunk driver - my daughter's loss would be immeasurably compounded if she also lost the relationship with me."

The bill was originally intended to limit custody status of gay and lesbian couples not allowed to marry in Utah. A similar measure passed the Utah Legislature last year, but was vetoed by Governor Jon Huntsman Junior out of concern for unintended consequences to grandparents and stepparents.

The Governor's legal counsel and the State Department of Human Services have approved of this year's version of the bill, according to sponsoring Senator Curt Bramble. The measure was approved by a senate committee and advanced for further debate.

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