summary
Introduced
02/09/2026
02/09/2026
In Committee
02/10/2026
02/10/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Article 3 of Chapter 5 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to kidnapping, false imprisonment, and related offenses, so as to revise provisions relative to the offenses of interference with custody and interstate interference with custody; to require law enforcement officers to issue a citation to persons suspected of interference with custody to appear in court within a time certain to present properly executed documentation or other tangible evidence showing that such person's conduct was authorized; to require preliminary hearings within seven business days of the issuance of such citations; to provide an applicable standard for probable cause; to make it unlawful for a person to present false documentation in connection with proceedings provided for in this Act; to provide for penalties; to revise and repeal definitions; to provide a short title; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date and applicability; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill, known as the "Georgia Custodial Interference Reform Act," revises the laws concerning interference with a child's custody. It clarifies that a "child" is anyone under 18 years old and defines "lawful custody" as that awarded by a court. The bill mandates that if a law enforcement officer suspects interference with custody, they must issue a citation requiring the person to appear in court within 72 hours to present proof that their actions were authorized. A preliminary hearing must then be held within seven business days to determine probable cause, with officers allowed to rely on facially valid court orders. The bill also introduces penalties for interference with custody, with increased severity for repeat offenses, and makes it a felony to knowingly present false documentation in these proceedings, punishable by imprisonment and fines. Finally, it defines interstate interference with custody as knowingly removing a child from the state in violation of a court order, also a felony.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (3)
Last Action
Senate Read and Referred (on 02/10/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/73007 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/241981 |
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