Bill > HB63

This bill, known as The Good Dad Act, amends Alabama law to modify provisions related to paternity acknowledgment and child custody. The bill changes existing statutes to establish that a valid paternity acknowledgment filed with the Alabama Office of Vital Statistics is a legal finding of paternity that grants the acknowledged father full parental rights and responsibilities. Importantly, the bill introduces new presumptions in child custody proceedings for fathers who have acknowledged paternity: it creates a rebuttable presumption that joint custody, equal decision-making rights, and equally shared physical custody are in the child's best interest, particularly when the parent lives within 40 miles of the child. The bill also stipulates that neither parent can remove the child from the state of residence without the other parent's consent or court permission. These presumptions can be challenged by presenting evidence that demonstrates they are not in the child's best interest, and courts must consider standard custody determination factors when evaluating such claims. The new legal provisions will become effective on October 1, 2025, potentially providing a more balanced approach to parental rights for fathers who have legally acknowledged their children.

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https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search