Law Sparked By Kasem Fight Grants Visiting Rights To Adults

SACRAMENTO (AP) — Gov. Jerry Brown has signed legislation granting visiting rights to adult children of ailing parents, sparked by a family dispute over who could visit radio broadcasting legend Casey Kasem.

Brown announced Tuesday that he signed AB1085, which allows judges to order visitation, telephone calls and personal mail with a sick parent.

Glendale Democratic Assemblyman Mike Gatto says his legislation will help families connect at what can be a critical time. It also requires caretakers to notify certain family members when a parent dies.

Gatto cited the difficulties faced by Kerri Kasem as she tried to see her father before his death last year. She now co-hosts the "Protect Your Family" and "Gurvey's Law" talk shows on KABC Radio.

He says Kasem's situation brought thousands of similar complaints.

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