Conservatively Speaking
State Senator Mary Lazich (R-New Berlin) represents parts of four counties: Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, and Walworth. Her Senate District 28 includes New Berlin, Franklin, Greendale, Hales Corners, Muskego, Waterford, Big Bend and parts of Greenfield, East Troy, and Mukwonago. Senator Lazich has been in the Legislature for more than a decade. She considers herself a tireless crusader for lower taxes, reduced spending and smaller government.
Sibling visitation bill approved by state Senate
By Mary Lazich
Wednesday, Mar 12 2008, 05:37 PM
Legislation I authored that allows siblings to continue visitation in the event parental visitation is terminated was approved by the state Senate today.
Senate Bill 476 is follow-up legislation to 2005 Wisconsin Act 448 that I authored that gives children awaiting adoption the right to be adopted into the family of an already adopted sibling. Children in foster care or awaiting adoption under the law now have the opportunity to grow up with a sibling rather than a stranger.
Currently, sibling visitation ceases upon termination of parental visitation. Senate Bill 476 is a logical step to take now that the state allows siblings to be adopted into the same family.
One of my constituents with much experience as a foster parent brought this problem to my attention. The constituent was disturbed that upon the appropriate termination of parent visitation, the children were not allowed to continue sibling visitation. Under Senate Bill 476, if it is in the best interest of the child/children, visitation is to be allowed.
The children must be of utmost importance and consideration during this sad and tragic event in their lives. Senate Bill 476 allows siblings to continue visitation and prevents children from experiencing further separation, disruption, and confusion.
