An Act relative to child-centered family law

This bill updates Massachusetts family law to prioritize the best interests of children by replacing the term "visitation" with "parenting time" and establishing a framework for shared parental responsibilities. It requires that every divorce or custody order include a written parenting plan that details how parents will share decision-making and residential duties based on the child's unique needs. The legislation defines specific terms like "shared decision-making" and "shared residential responsibility," ensuring courts consider factors such as the child's relationship with each parent and their ability to cooperate when making custody decisions.