Bill > S2754

This bill proposes to amend the Massachusetts General Laws by striking out sections 1 to 14 of Chapter 209B and inserting a new "Massachusetts Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act." The key provisions of this bill include: - Defining terms related to child custody, such as "child-custody determination," "child-custody proceeding," "home state," and "modification." - Establishing the jurisdictional requirements for a Massachusetts court to make an initial child custody determination, including the child's "home state" and significant connections to the state. - Providing for the enforcement of child custody determinations made by courts in other states, including registration and expedited procedures. - Allowing for temporary emergency jurisdiction in cases of abandonment or abuse. - Requiring notice and an opportunity to be heard for parties in child custody proceedings. - Outlining procedures for communication and cooperation between courts in different states. - Authorizing the award of fees, costs, and expenses to a prevailing party in an enforcement action. - Applying the Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act to promote uniformity of the law across states that enact it. The bill would take effect on December 31, 2024, and apply to child custody proceedings commenced on or after that date.