Bill > S04619

This bill amends the New York domestic relations law to prohibit courts from considering a parent's military deployment as a negative factor when determining child custody, provided the deploying parent presents a suitable child care plan during their deployment. Specifically, the bill ensures that military service members in active duty with either the United States armed forces or the New York organized militia will not be disadvantaged in custody proceedings solely because of their military service. The legislation recognizes that military parents should not be penalized for their service and seeks to protect their parental rights by requiring courts to evaluate their custody case based on the best interests of the child and the proposed child care arrangements during deployment. The bill applies to various legal proceedings involving child custody, including divorce, separation, and custody disputes, and ensures that a comprehensive and appropriate child care plan can mitigate concerns about a parent's ability to care for their child during military service. By adding these provisions to existing law, the bill aims to provide additional legal protection and support for military families navigating child custody matters.

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https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4619