Kids in California Can Now Have More Than Two Legal Parents

Democratic California Gov. Jerry Brown signed a piece of legislation into law Friday allowing children in the state to have more than two legal parents.

The measure, authored by a Democratic state senator, was aimed at upgrading the law to reflect supposed modern changes in the family structure. For instance, same-sex couples who use a member of the opposite sex to produce, would fall under this category.

"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," Sen. Mark Leno (D), who authored the bill, said, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Children in California can now have more than two legal parents. (Image source: Shutterstock.com)

"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," he added.

Pro-traditional family groups immediately skewered the new law, arguing it would ultimately hurt children.

"This is in the long run going to be a mistake," Brad Dacus, president of the Pacific Justice League, said, according to the LA Times. "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."

According to the LA Times, Brown vetoed a similar bill last year and would not return requests for comment asking what changed his mind.

(H/T: Los Angeles Times)

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