This bill amends existing New Jersey law to clarify the parental rights and responsibilities of unwed parents regarding their minor children. It establishes that a parent whose name appears on the child's birth certificate can request a determination of parental relationship, an order for child support, and court consideration of a custody plan. Additionally, it specifies that both the mother and a father who has established paternity are considered the de facto natural guardians of the child, entitled to the rights and responsibilities of a parent. If paternity has not been established, the mother remains the sole natural guardian.

The bill introduces new legal language that allows a parent listed on the birth certificate to initiate legal actions related to parental rights and responsibilities. It also emphasizes that the mother of a child born out of wedlock is the natural guardian if the father has not established paternity. This legislation aims to provide clearer guidelines for unwed parents and is modeled after a similar law enacted in Florida in June 2023.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9:17-41