Family law: child custody; factors determining best interest of child; include equal time with both parents as a factor. Amends secs. 3 & 5 of 1970 PA 91 (MCL 722.23 & 722.25). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0941'26, SB 0942'26

This bill modifies Michigan's child custody laws to include equal parenting time with both parents as a specific factor when courts decide what is in a child's best interest. It establishes a legal presumption that awarding equal or approximately equal parenting time to each parent serves the child's best interests, unless proven otherwise by clear and convincing evidence. The legislation also strengthens protections against offenders convicted of criminal sexual conduct by prohibiting them from receiving custody of their own children or siblings without the consent of the other parent or the child. These changes directly affect parents involved in custody disputes and aim to ensure that custody decisions prioritize balanced parental involvement while maintaining safety for victims of sexual misconduct.