Bill > SB1354

This bill modifies Missouri state law regarding the enforcement of child custody and visitation orders by changing the language from permissive to mandatory for law enforcement. Specifically, the bill requires that court orders for child custody or visitation must now include a provision mandating that sheriffs or other law enforcement officers enforce the custody and visitation rights of the individuals specified in the order. The bill also establishes specific conditions under which a law enforcement officer can remove a child from someone's physical custody, stipulating that an officer must be presented with a clear and convincing court order that verifies the person is not entitled to custody. Additionally, the officer must not proceed with removal if there are circumstances that give reasonable suspicion that the child could be harmed or if there are doubts about the validity of the presented court order. This change aims to provide clearer guidelines for law enforcement when responding to child custody disputes and to ensure that the rights of parents or guardians are protected while prioritizing the safety of the child.

Justice

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=507