behavioral health crisis; temporary orders

HB 2969 amends Arizona's family law statutes to require courts to include specific safety planning procedures for behavioral health crises in parenting plans. It directly affects parents and judges in custody cases by mandating that parenting plans (Section 25-403.02) include "a procedure for notice and safety planning in the event of a behavioral health crisis" and temporary orders under Section 25-403.11. The key provision requires courts to integrate crisis safety protocols - such as temporary orders or expedited hearings - into custody arrangements when a parent experiences a behavioral health crisis, ensuring children's safety during such events. This bill does not create new crisis services but mandates that existing legal processes address behavioral health emergencies within custody orders. The bill is currently pending (House First Reading on 2026-02-05) and would apply to all Arizona family court cases involving parenting plans.