After meeting Matthew and Karen Housley, my heart was touched by their story. Following the heartbreaking loss of their daughter, Lacey Housley Rhoten to cancer, they were also devastated by the sudden loss of their relationship with their three beloved grandchildren.
When I shared their story online, the response was overwhelming. Message after message came from grandparents across North Carolina who had experienced similar heartbreak. It became clear that this is not an isolated case. It's affecting families throughout our state. That is why I created this petition.
Children deserve the opportunity to maintain loving relationships with grandparents who have been a meaningful part of their lives.
Today, too many children in North Carolina lose that bond after the death of a parent or because of family conflict, even when their grandparents have provided years of love, support, and stability.
We urge the North Carolina General Assembly to strengthen North Carolina's grandparents' rights laws by allowing courts to consider grandparent visitation in limited circumstances when it is in the best interests of the child, while respecting the constitutional rights of fit parents.
Every child deserves the chance to remain connected to the family members who have loved and supported them.
Sign this petition today to support stronger grandparents' rights in North Carolina and help keep families connected.
