This bill establishes neutral safe exchange zones at county sheriff offices for the custody and visitation exchanges of minor children. Each county sheriff is required to designate at least one parking lot at their office or a substation as a neutral safe exchange zone, where parents can meet to exchange their children. The designated zones must be clearly marked, accessible 24/7, adequately lit, and equipped with a continuous external video surveillance system that records both day and night. The bill also stipulates that the county sheriff must retain these video recordings for a minimum of 45 days. Importantly, the bill includes a provision that protects county officials and law enforcement from civil liability related to incidents occurring during these exchanges.
Additionally, the bill allows courts to order exchanges at a court-approved site if there is a history of domestic violence between the parties or if a restraining order is in place. To support the implementation of these neutral safe exchange zones, the bill appropriates necessary funds from the General Fund to each county sheriff's office. The act is set to take effect on the first day of the 13th month following its enactment.