PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB2018

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB2018

Introduced
2/7/24  

Caption

In child custody, further providing for factors to consider when awarding custody.

Impact

If passed, HB 2018 will adjust the legal framework for child custody cases in Pennsylvania, imposing more substantial considerations regarding safety and well-being. The bill emphasizes the importance of evaluating each parent's ability to provide a nurturing environment and to minimize any potential conflicts that might arise. This could lead to more rigorous scrutiny of parenting capabilities during custody hearings, influencing outcomes significantly, especially in cases where allegations of abuse are involved.

Summary

House Bill 2018 aims to amend Title 23 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes concerning factors to consider when awarding child custody. This bill outlines specific criteria that courts must evaluate to ensure the best interest of the child is prioritized. Among the amended factors are the present and past behavior of the parties, including any history of abuse or neglect, the willingness of each party to facilitate contact between the child and the other party, and the need for stability and continuity in the child's life.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2018 appears divided. Supporters, including family law advocates, argue that these changes are necessary to enhance child welfare by making safety a primary concern in custody determinations. They assert that the revisions provide clearer guidelines for judges, ensuring that children's emotional and physical needs are better addressed. Conversely, critics may view this bill as a means to complicate custody arrangements, especially for non-abusive parents who might be unfairly portrayed through unfounded allegations of misconduct.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about how the bill handles allegations of abuse, particularly unsubstantiated claims. There is apprehension that the changes may inadvertently lead to the parental alienation of a non-custodial parent if not handled delicately. Furthermore, debates around the definitions and interpretations of what constitutes 'safety' and 'well-being' raise questions about the potential for bias in custody decisions, thereby sparking discussions about maintaining a balance between child's safety and parental rights.

Latest HB2018 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB378

In child custody, further providing for factors to consider when awarding custody.

PA HB1499

In child custody, further providing for definitions, for award of custody, for standing for partial physical custody and supervised physical custody, for presumption in cases concerning primary physical custody, for factors to consider when awarding custody, for consideration of criminal conviction and for parenting plan; and making editorial changes.

PA HB1684

In child custody, further providing for definitions, for award of custody, for standing for partial physical custody and supervised physical custody, for presumption in cases concerning primary physical custody, for factors to consider when awarding custody, for consideration of criminal conviction and for parenting plan; and making editorial changes.

PA SB55

In child custody, further providing for definitions, for award of custody, for factors to consider when awarding custody, for consideration of criminal conviction, for guardian ad litem for child, for counsel for child and for award of counsel fees, costs and expenses; and, in Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts, providing for child abuse and domestic abuse education and training program for judges and court personnel.

PA HB1928

In child custody, further providing for definitions, for award of custody, for factors to consider when awarding custody, for consideration of criminal conviction, for guardian ad litem for child, for counsel for child and for award of counsel fees, costs and expenses; and, in Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts, providing for child abuse and domestic abuse education and training program for judges and court personnel.

PA HB288

In child custody, further providing for factors to consider when awarding custody and providing for solicitation and consideration of family finding and kinship care provider testimony.

PA A498

Requires court to consider additional factors in awarding custody of child.

PA SB137

Provide for the consideration of a child's wishes in awarding custody.

PA A5711

Requires court to consider additional factors in awarding custody of child.

PA HB1699

In child custody, further providing for award of custody, repealing provisions relating to relocation and providing for relocation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.