The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 518.17, subdivision 1, to refine the criteria used by courts in determining the best interests of a child in custody and parenting time cases. It emphasizes the need for courts to evaluate a range of factors, including the child's physical, emotional, and developmental needs, the history of each parent's involvement in the child's care, and the implications of any domestic abuse. Notably, the bill introduces a rebuttable presumption that joint legal custody is in the best interests of the child unless there is evidence of domestic abuse, which would negate this presumption.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that disagreement over parenting time schedules or joint custody does not automatically indicate an inability of parents to cooperate in raising their children. It also specifies that courts must not solely consider a parent's past or potential military deployment when assessing custodial responsibilities. These changes aim to promote a more nuanced understanding of family dynamics and ensure that the child's welfare remains the primary focus in custody determinations.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 518.17