Gov. Jerry Brown signed legislation Friday that will allow children in California to have more than two legal parents, the Los Angeles Times reported.
State Sen. Mark Leno said he proposed the bill to help address unique family situations so that custody and finances can be shared among all those who are raising the child.
“Courts need the ability to recognize these changes so children are supported by the adults that play a central role in loving and caring for them,” he said. “It is critical that judges have the ability to recognize the roles of all parents so that no child has to endure separation from one of the adults he or she has always known as a parent.”
Brad Dacus, president of the Pacific Justice Institute, a conservative legal defense group, opposes the measure.
“This is in the long run going to be a mistake,” he said. “The ones who are going to pay the price are not the activists, but it’s going to be children, who will see greater conflict and indecision over matters involving their well-being.”
The conservative Capitol Resource Institute said the legislation is detrimental to children, arguing that children thrive in homes with their biological mother and father, the Los Angeles Times reported.
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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