The "Equal Parenting Act" aims to amend various sections of the South Carolina Code of Laws to establish a presumption that equal parenting time is in the best interest of children in custody and visitation cases. Key provisions include the requirement for guardians ad litem to conduct impartial investigations and represent the child's best interests, with a specific presumption that joint custody with equal parenting time is favorable unless proven otherwise. The bill also introduces measures to address potential bias or misconduct by guardians ad litem, including the necessity for drug testing and the ability for parties to contest appointments based on misconduct.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the court in custody determinations, emphasizing the need for written findings when deviating from equal parenting time. It mandates that parents submit parenting plans during custody hearings and establishes criteria for evaluating the reasonableness of guardian ad litem fees, including considerations of each party's financial circumstances. The act seeks to ensure that custody arrangements prioritize the child's welfare while providing a structured framework for addressing parental interference and misconduct.

Statutes affected:
02/10/2026: 63-3-810, 63-15-210
Latest Version: 63-3-810, 63-15-210