Relating to: the appointment of a guardian ad litem in a proceeding to grant reasonable visitation rights to a nonparent. (FE)

AB 519 requires courts to appoint a court-appointed advocate (guardian ad litem) for a minor child in any family court case where a nonparent (such as a grandparent or close family friend) petitions for reasonable visitation rights under statute 767.43 and has legally established standing to file the petition. This mandate applies specifically to cases involving nonparent visitation requests, ensuring the child’s best interests are represented by an independent advocate. The bill takes effect for all such petitions filed on or after its effective date, creating a new procedural requirement in family court proceedings.