Bill > S834

This bill, titled "Relative to Child-Centered Family Law," proposes changes to Chapter 208 of the General Laws, specifically Section 31, to prioritize the best interests of children in family law matters. It establishes a public policy statement emphasizing safe, healthy, and meaningful relationships between children and their parents, encouraging shared parental responsibilities and parenting plans that consider a child's unique needs and maturity. The bill defines key terms such as "Decision-Making Responsibility" (shared or sole) and "Residential Responsibility" (shared or primary), both of which together constitute "Parental Responsibility." It mandates that a "Parenting Plan," a written document outlining these responsibilities, be incorporated into all temporary orders, judgments of divorce nisi, and modification judgments involving minor children. The bill outlines factors the court must consider when determining parental responsibilities, including the child's relationship with each parent, the child's wishes if of sufficient age, parents' ability to cooperate, their availability, caregiving history, and their ability to foster a positive relationship between the child and the other parent. It also lists limiting factors that could restrict parenting time, such as abuse, substance abuse, incarceration, or involving the child in parental disputes. The bill details the required components of a parenting plan, such as decision-making and residential responsibilities, legal residence for school, parenting schedules, information sharing, travel protocols, relocation policies, and dispute resolution methods. Finally, it specifies remedies the court can order for noncompliance with a parenting plan, including adjusting the plan, reimbursement for expenses, mandatory parenting education, or awarding counsel fees.