Bill > HB3582

This bill, known as the "Equal Parenting Act," modifies Oklahoma law regarding child custody by establishing a presumption that joint custody and equally shared parenting time are in the child's best interest, which can be overcome with evidence. It clarifies that "joint custody" means parents share in aspects of physical and legal care, custody, and control of their children, and requires parents seeking joint custody to submit a plan detailing living arrangements, child support, healthcare, schooling, and visitation. The court will issue a final plan, potentially with modifications, or reject joint custody altogether. Parents can jointly or individually modify the plan, subject to court approval if it's in the child's best interest. The bill also outlines conditions under which a joint custody decree can be terminated and introduces a significant provision: if a parent is a registered sex offender or has committed certain violent crimes, there is a rebuttable presumption that any form of shared custody or parenting plan with that parent is detrimental to the child, and custody should reside with the other parent. The bill also defines terms like "child abuse," "domestic violence," "harassment," and "stalking" and states that a parent's absence or relocation due to domestic violence should not negatively impact custody or visitation decisions, with the child's safety and well-being being a primary factor for the court.

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http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb3582&Session=2600