This bill amends existing Oklahoma law regarding child custody, specifically Sections 109 and 112 of Title 43. It establishes a rebuttable presumption in favor of joint custody, asserting that joint custody and equally shared parenting time are generally in the best interest of the child. The court is required to consider the best interests of the child when making custody decisions, and if joint custody is requested, parents must submit a detailed plan for care, custody, and control of the child. The bill also introduces provisions for modifying custody arrangements and addresses situations involving domestic violence or child abuse, creating a presumption that sole custody should be awarded to the non-offending parent in such cases.

Additionally, the bill updates statutory language and clarifies the court's responsibilities in custody cases involving minor children. It emphasizes the importance of frequent contact with both parents post-separation and removes any legal preference against joint custody. The bill also outlines the court's authority to appoint an arbitrator in case of disputes between parents with joint custody and specifies that the safety and well-being of the child are paramount considerations in custody determinations. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43-109