Provides that a person legally responsible for a child shall be found neglectful if he or she fails to provide the child with support

BILL NUMBER:A10037

Title of bill

An act to amend the family court act, in relation to providing that a person legally responsible for a child shall be found neglectful if he or she fails to provide a child with proper support when the child is at risk of becoming a person in need of supervision

Purpose or general idea of bill

To require neglectful parents to participate in parenting classes.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1. Paragraph (i) of subdivision (0 of section 1012 of the family court act is amended by adding a new subparagraph (c). If a child is at risk of becoming a person in need of supervision and a parent fails to seek out and provide support or reha- bilitation services; or if the court makes a finding of neglect which includes a lack of counseling or guidance, parents will be required to participate in parenting classes for which the respondent must submit proof of completion to the court.

Justification

Neglectful, indifferent or dismissive parenting is both unresponsive and undemanding toward a child. This bill would combat neglectful parenting through court ordered parenting classes when a judge determines that a child has been a victim of neglect. These class- es will ensure that parents and guardians receive adequate information on how to become a more effective and responsive parent or guardian.

Prior legislative history

New Bill

Fiscal implications

Undetermined

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the ninetieth day after it shall have become a law,