Senate Bill 161 proposes significant changes to the determination of physical placement schedules in family law cases in Wisconsin. The bill amends current law by removing the existing standard that allows courts to consider various factors when setting a physical placement schedule. Instead, it establishes a presumption that equalizing physical placement time between both parents is in the best interest of the child. This presumption can be rebutted if the court finds, by a preponderance of the evidence and after considering all statutory best-interest factors, that equal placement would not serve the child's best interests.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new factor for consideration in placement decisions, specifically addressing the geographic separation of the parties involved. This change aims to ensure that the physical placement schedule maximizes the time a child spends with each parent while still allowing for the court's discretion to deviate from this presumption when warranted. The bill applies to actions or proceedings commenced on or after its effective date.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 767.41(4)(a)2, 767.41