It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows

SECTION 1. Chapter 15-7 of the General Laws entitled "Adoption of Children" is hereby amended by adding thereto the following section:

{ADD 15-7-7.2. Mediation of termination of parental rights. -- ADD} {ADD The family court may establish a voluntary mediation program for termination of parental rights. Once established, the court may with the consent of the parties, refer to mediation all or any portion of a matter relating to termination of parental rights. ADD}

SECTION 2. Chapter 40-11 of the general laws entitled "Abused and Neglected Children" is hereby amended by adding thereto the following section:

{ADD 40-11-7.3. Mediation of child protection matters. -- ADD} {ADD The family court may establish a voluntary mediation program for child protection matters. Once established, the court may, with the consent of the parties, refer to mediation all or any portion of a matter relating to child protection matters. ADD}

SECTION 3. This act shall take effect upon passage.