Bill > S909

This bill proposes changes to Massachusetts family law to prioritize the child's best interests and encourage shared parental responsibilities. Key provisions include: 1) Replacing the term "visitation" with "parenting time" throughout relevant laws. 2) Defining new terms such as "Decision-Making Responsibility" (shared or sole) and "Residential Responsibility" (shared or primary) to clarify parental rights and obligations. 3) Requiring a parenting plan to be included in all orders and judgments involving minor children, detailing factors the court must consider in determining parental responsibilities. 4) Providing additional remedies for noncompliance with a parenting plan, such as adjusting the plan, ordering parenting education, or awarding expenses. 5) Clarifying that a parent's access to a child's records is not negated by a court order, except in certain cases to protect the child or parent's safety or welfare. The overall goal is to promote a child-centered approach that ensures frequent, continued contact with both parents when in the child's best interest.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S909