LANSING -- Michigan’s archaic Paternity Actis one step closer to becoming modernized, and it's the tragic story of one Fenton father who's inspiring it to happen.
State law hasn't allowed Daniel Quinn to see his daughter Maeleigh since 2008.
Every night he prays for her safe return, and he hopes his story will inspire lawmakers to bring her home.
Fenton father Daniel Quinn...
"I’m one step closer to sleeping at night," said Quinn.
Is also one step closer in obtaining parental rights of his 5-year-old daughter Maeleigh.
"I can tell they were very moved by the testimony," said State Senator Steven Bieda.
Legislation co-sponsored by Senator Steven Bieda to update Michigan’s Paternity Act was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee Tuesday.
"Three and a half years of a nightmare for this man and thank God there is at least a step in the right direction," said Quinn’s Attorney, Greg Rohl.
Quinn inspired bill number 256 because current state law does not give him legal standing to show he is the biological father of Maeleigh.
She was born when Quinn was in a relationship with a married woman.
He raised Maeleigh for two years, but her mother took her away to live with her estranged husband who used Maeleigh to sell drugs.
Quinn’s heart breaking testimony moved his mother to tears and the committee to action.
"She has bonded and known only one father, myself," said Quinn.
The Michigan Paternity Act dates back to 1956. The goal was to protect the sanctity of marriage, but it does not take into account DNA testing, something Quinn says needs to change.
"There comes a time where common sense has got to trump common law," said Quinn.
The bill would give Quinn and other fathers standing to claim parental rights if the husband denies paternity, or if a relationship is established between the biological father and the child, and it will give judges the ability to rule what is best for the child on a case-by-case basis.
"It protects the husbands that have raised these children, but at the same time it also protects the biological fathers that have raised their children," said Quinn.
Marilyn Stephen with the Michigan Department of Human Services says they see the need to modernize the law, but the bill needs to give all parties involved an equal voice.
"We are trying to be as broad based as we can to make sure we are looking at the best interest of the child in these cases," said Senator Bieda.
Senator Bieda says he plans on working with DHS as Quinn continues to wait for his little girl.
"I love you Maeleigh. Hang on, daddy's still here," said Quinn.
Senator Bieda says he hopes his bill will see a signature from the governor in the next few months.
The Family Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan says they support the bill.
How has the Michigan Paternity Act impacted your family?
Do you think the law needs to be updated?
Do you think all sides are represented in Senate Bill 256?
