Bill > SB0940

This bill amends the Child Custody Act of 1970 to establish a presumption that awarding equal or approximately equal parenting time to each parent is in the best interests of the child when parents are in a custody dispute, which can only be overcome by clear and convincing evidence proving otherwise. The bill also clarifies that when determining the best interests of a child, courts must consider a comprehensive list of factors, including the child's religion, the parents' capacity to provide care and guidance, the child's home and community record, and the reasonable preference of the child if they are old enough to express it. Additionally, it reinforces existing provisions that prevent individuals convicted of certain sex offenses, or found to have committed such acts, from gaining custody of a child, especially if the victim is the child or a sibling, unless specific consent is given.