Bill > S2961

This bill updates the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: - Defines terms like "child," "child-custody determination," and "home state" to clarify jurisdiction. - Establishes when Massachusetts courts have initial, exclusive, and temporary emergency jurisdiction over child custody matters. - Requires notice and opportunity to be heard before making child custody determinations. - Provides procedures for registering and enforcing out-of-state child custody orders in Massachusetts. - Allows for expedited enforcement of child custody orders and authorizes law enforcement assistance. - Requires courts to give full faith and credit to valid out-of-state child custody orders. - Clarifies the role of prosecutors and law enforcement in child custody cases. - The bill will take effect on December 31, 2024.