This bill mandates ongoing training for judges and court personnel on domestic abuse, effective January 1, 2026, focusing on evidence-based practices and providing a clear definition of domestic abuse, which includes physical harm and severe emotional distress. It also expands the criteria for child custody determinations by requiring courts to consider evidence of child or domestic abuse. Additionally, the bill prohibits courts from ordering reunification treatment or evaluations in contested custody cases involving such evidence unless the evaluator has specific qualifications, emphasizing the need for scientifically valid proof of safety and effectiveness for any ordered treatment.

Moreover, the bill introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding child custody and parenting arrangements. It defines "joint custody," "parent," "parenting plan," "period of responsibility," "reunification treatment," "sole custody," and "visitation," aiming to provide clearer guidelines for custody arrangements and enhance the understanding of parental roles and responsibilities. These changes are designed to prioritize the best interests of the child in custody decisions and ensure comprehensive definitions of child and domestic abuse within existing laws.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 30-3A-2, 40-4-9.1