The proposed bill would amend current statutes to establish requirements for neutral safe exchange locations for child custody exchanges under court-ordered parenting plans. Specifically, it mandates that each sheriff's office designate at least one parking lot as a neutral safe exchange location, which must be clearly marked with a purple light or sign. The designated locations must be accessible 24/7, equipped with adequate lighting, and have a video surveillance system that retains recordings for 45 days. Additionally, the bill stipulates that law enforcement personnel and employees at these locations are not liable for civil damages related to incidents occurring during child exchanges.
Furthermore, the bill modifies existing parenting plan requirements by specifying that the plan must indicate whether the exchange location is a designated safe exchange location. It also allows courts to mandate the use of these locations if there is a risk of harm to a party or child during exchanges, or if it is deemed necessary for safety or in the best interest of the child. The definition of a safe exchange location is expanded to include various approved sites, ensuring that the safety and well-being of the child and parents are prioritized during custody exchanges.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 11-452, 25-403.02, 25-403.10, 25-403, 25-403.03, 25-403.04, 25-403.05, 25-401, 25-408