Bill > H1419

This bill aims to address child custody arrangements when either parent is on active military duty. It proposes the following key provisions: 1. A parent's absence, relocation, or failure to comply with custody/parenting orders due to military deployment, mobilization, or temporary duty will not be considered in modifying custody or parenting orders. 2. If a parent with sole or joint physical custody receives military orders that require them to move or have a material effect on their ability to exercise custody/parenting time, the court may: (a) issue a temporary custody/parenting order for the duration of the parent's absence, and (b) delegate the parent's parenting time to a family member or stepparent to maintain the child's frequent contact with the deployed parent. 3. If a parent's military service will impact their ability to appear in person at a hearing, the court must either hold an expedited hearing before the parent's departure or allow the parent to present testimony and evidence electronically. The bill aims to provide flexibility and minimize disruption to child custody arrangements when a parent is called to active military duty.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H1419