Requests the Senate Select Committee on Women and Children to study a parent's right to equal custodial periods with their child.
Impact
If the study leads to concrete recommendations, it could enhance state laws regarding custodial arrangements by advocating for policies that promote equal parenting time. This could involve revising existing family law statutes to ensure that judges have clearer guidelines to allocate custodial time more equitably between parents. In turn, this might reduce instances where children are subject to alienation from one parent due to contentious custody arrangements.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 143, introduced by Senator Barrow, urges the Senate Select Committee on Women and Children to study a parent's right to equal custodial periods with their child. The resolution emphasizes the importance of maintaining frequent and meaningful contact between children and both parents, promoting the notion that equal custodial arrangements are in the best interest of children's development. The proposal aligns with and references Senate Bill No. 267 which focuses on child reunification programs aimed at addressing parental alienation and its effects on children.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SR143 appears to lean towards promoting children's welfare through parental involvement. Legislators advocating for the resolution likely view it as a necessary step towards ensuring that children's rights to interact with both parents are preserved. However, discussions may reveal underlying tensions regarding parental rights versus child's best interests, particularly when addressing the complexity of custodial disputes.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the balance between a parent's rights and the child's needs, especially in cases where previous behaviors may have impacted the custodial relationship. Advocates for equal custodial periods might face opposition from those who argue that equal time may not always be in a child's best interest, particularly in situations involving issues of past abuse or parental alienation. Therefore, the outcome of the study could influence how legislation addresses such complex family dynamics.
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to study the feasibility of funding a remote monitoring program for technology-dependent children
Creates and provides for a program to provide state funding for the education of students not enrolled in public school and expands the ability of parents to enroll children in the public school of their choice (RR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Requests the Louisiana Passenger Safety Task Force to study the feasability of creating a program to provide education on child passenger safety and coordinate the distribution of child safety seats to families in need.
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to assist in the development of a public service campaign to foster awareness and education on perinatal mental health care.