The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to enhance protections for minor children in parenting plans, particularly in cases involving allegations or convictions of abuse. It establishes that parents must prioritize their children's welfare, allowing courts to impose limitations on a parent's residential time if their conduct poses an unreasonable risk of harm. New definitions such as "abusive use of conflict," "protective actions," and "willful abandonment" are introduced to clarify behaviors that may warrant restrictions. The bill outlines specific circumstances for limiting parental contact, including instances of physical or emotional abuse, and establishes rebuttable presumptions regarding parents with certain convictions, particularly related to sexual offenses against children.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for supervised visitation for parents with a history of sexual offenses, requiring a neutral supervisor and treatment for the offending parent. It prohibits unsupervised contact if a parent has sexually abused the child or if the child was conceived as a result of sexual assault. The legislation also addresses custody and relocation rights, allowing military parents to delegate visitation rights during their absence and clarifying that temporary disruptions due to military service do not constitute a change in circumstances for custody decisions. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen child safety in custody arrangements while considering the best interests of the child and the unique challenges faced by military families.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 26.09.191, 11.130.215, 26.09.187, 26.09.194, 26.09.260, 26.09.520, 26.12.177
Substitute Bill: 26.09.191, 11.130.215, 26.09.187, 26.09.194, 26.09.260, 26.09.520, 26.12.177
Engrossed Substitute: 26.09.191, 11.130.215, 26.09.187, 26.09.194, 26.09.260, 26.09.520, 26.12.177
Bill as Passed Legislature: 26.09.191, 11.130.215, 26.09.187, 26.09.194, 26.09.260, 26.09.520, 26.12.177
Session Law: 26.09.191, 11.130.215, 26.09.187, 26.09.194, 26.09.260, 26.09.520, 26.12.177