This bill amends the existing law regarding the determination of parental rights and responsibilities by adding a new factor for courts to consider: any known mental health conditions of the parent. Specifically, it modifies RSA 461-A:6, I(m) to include the phrase "due consideration for any known mental health conditions of the parent" as part of the relevant factors that the court may deem important in making its decisions. This addition aims to ensure that mental health issues are taken into account when assessing a parent's ability to fulfill their responsibilities.

The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and does not provide any funding or authorize new positions. However, it is expected to lead to some increase in litigation costs related to privacy interests and privileged medical records, with estimates ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 in the initial years as legal precedents are established. The Judicial Branch has indicated that further legislative guidance on handling these considerations could help mitigate potential litigation and associated costs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 461-A:6