In Pennsylvania, parents may file a petition to change a custody order if the parent asserts that the current custody order is not in the best interest of the child. Current law does not specify that significant changes in circumstances need to be proven in order to request a custody order modification. Without a compelling argument to modify an existing custody order, a modification could be made that is not in the best interest of the child.

For this reason, we will be introducing legislation that would require an individual requesting a child custody modification to demonstrate a material change in circumstances since the enactment of the original custody order. Courts would still be able to modify an existing order without a change in circumstances if the court determines that the best interest of the child requires a change. This legislation will assist in ensuring that the best interests of a child are prioritized in determining a child custody modification.

Please join us in co-sponsoring this important legislation to ensure children are protected throughout the child custody modification process.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1613 (May 06, 2025): 23-5338
Printer's No. 2068 (Jul 01, 2025): 23-5338