Marriage and family; Equal Parenting Act; child custody; factors; custody agreements; effective date.

HB 3582, the "Equal Parenting Act," creates a legal presumption that joint custody with equally shared parenting time is in a child's best interest when parents request it. The bill requires parents to submit detailed written plans covering living arrangements, child support, medical care, school placement, and visitation - accompanied by signed affidavits agreeing to the plan - before a court can approve joint custody. It also establishes rebuttable presumptions against joint custody in cases involving child abuse, domestic violence, stalking, harassment, or sex offender registry status, prioritizing the child’s safety. The law further protects parents fleeing domestic violence by preventing their relocation from being used against them in custody decisions. The bill takes effect November 1, 2026.