The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes related to custody proceedings by introducing new qualifications for expert testimony and altering the financial responsibilities associated with such proceedings. Under the new provisions, the court would only accept expert testimony on parenting time and legal decision-making from individuals with specialized expertise in child development or substantial clinical experience with children in therapeutic settings. Additionally, testimony regarding mental health, physical health, domestic violence, or substance abuse would be restricted to experts with relevant specialized expertise. The bill also mandates that expert testimony must adhere to professional guidelines and prohibits psychiatric evaluations unless there is a demonstrated high risk of harm to the child.

Furthermore, the bill shifts the financial burden of expert fees from parents to the court, ensuring that the costs associated with expert testimony in custody cases are covered by the court rather than the parents. It also removes existing statutory language that governs evaluations in contested custody proceedings, streamlining the process and allowing experts to consult relevant individuals while preparing evaluations. The requirement for experts to provide their evaluations to counsel at least ten days before hearings is also established, enhancing transparency and preparation for all parties involved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 25-405, 25-406
House Engrossed Version: 25-405, 25-406