An Act relative to the uniform child custody jurisdiction and enforcement act
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill establishes the Massachusetts Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act, aiming to standardize child custody laws across the state. It defines key terms like ‘home state,’ ‘child-custody determination,’ and ‘child-custody proceeding,’ and outlines procedures for determining jurisdiction in custody cases, including considering factors like where the child has lived and whether a court in another state is a more appropriate forum. The act also addresses enforcement of custody orders, including through the Hague Convention and provides for expedited procedures in emergency situations.
Key provisions
- Defines key terms such as ‘home state,’ ‘child-custody determination,’ and ‘child-custody proceeding.’
- Establishes criteria for determining initial child custody jurisdiction, considering factors like where the child has lived and the availability of evidence.
- Specifies how a court of the commonwealth can exercise exclusive, continuing jurisdiction over a child custody determination.
- Outlines procedures for enforcing child custody determinations, including through the Hague Convention.
- Provides for expedited enforcement procedures in emergency situations.
- Addresses the role of law enforcement and prosecutors in locating children and enforcing custody orders.
- Details how courts can communicate with courts in other states regarding child custody matters.
- Establishes provisions for preserving records related to child custody proceedings.
Who is affected
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Sponsors
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1 on record
Primary sponsor
Senate Committee on Ways and Means
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