AN ACT CONCERNING COURT PROCEEDINGS INVOLVING A CHILD OR YOUTH WHO IS ALLEGED TO HAVE BEEN UNCARED FOR, NEGLECTED OR ABUSED.

This bill updates court procedures for children alleged to be uncared for, neglected, or abused. It defines key terms like "permanent legal guardianship," "caregiver" (including relatives and foster parents), and "trial home visit" (a temporary return home under supervision). The bill requires courts to order specific steps for parents to reunite with children, and allows the Commissioner of Children and Families to authorize trial home visits with 15 days' notice and a 30-day timeline. It also creates a presumption that a current caregiver (like a relative or foster parent) should receive legal guardianship if parental rights end, unless proven otherwise. These changes directly affect children in foster care, their parents, and caregivers involved in court cases.