Bill > HB1699

This bill updates Pennsylvania's child custody laws regarding relocation, replacing the existing Section 5337 with a new Section 5337.1 that provides more detailed guidelines for parents who want to move with their children. The new law requires the relocating parent to file a custody complaint or petition for relocation that includes comprehensive information about the proposed move, such as the new address, reasons for relocation, and a proposed revised custody schedule. The nonrelocating parent must respond within 20 days, or they will be presumed to consent to the relocation. If the nonrelocating parent objects, the court will hold an expedited pretrial conference and potentially a full hearing to evaluate the relocation based on specific factors, including the child's best interests, the quality of the child's relationships with both parents, potential impact on the child's development, and the motivations behind the proposed move. The bill maintains previous protections by requiring the relocating parent to demonstrate that the move serves the child's best interests and giving the court the ability to consider any history of abuse or attempts to interfere with the other parent's relationship with the child. The new law aims to provide a more structured and transparent process for handling potential relocations while prioritizing the child's welfare.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1699