An Act amending Title 23 (Domestic Relations) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in child custody, further providing for factors to consider when awarding custody.
This bill updates Pennsylvania's child custody laws by refining the specific factors judges must consider when deciding custody arrangements. It places a strong emphasis on evaluating the safety of the child, particularly regarding past abuse, the risk of future harm, and any attempts by a parent to turn the child against the other parent. The legislation also clarifies how courts should weigh a child's own preferences based on their maturity and assesses practical issues like parental work schedules, proximity of homes, and the ability to meet the child's daily needs. These changes aim to provide clearer guidance for courts in determining the best interests of the child during custody disputes.
Bill status
in committee
1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 7, 2024
Last action Oct 1, 2024
Floor votes
How they voted
No floor votes recorded yet.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
5
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Amendments
1
Sep 30, 2024
Lower · Passed
Reported as amended
lower
Feb 7, 2024
Committee
Referred to Judiciary
lower
1 primary · 14 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Liz Hanbidge
DDemocratic
Co
Aaron Bernstine
RRepublican
Co
Carol Hill-Evans
DDemocratic
Co
Dan Williams
DDemocratic
Co
Greg Scott
DDemocratic
Co
Jamie Flick
RRepublican
Co
Kristine Howard
DDemocratic
Co
Kyle Donahue
DDemocratic
Co
Mary Jo Daley
DDemocratic
Co
Melissa Shusterman
DDemocratic
Co
Missy Cerrato
DDemocratic
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