Establishes the presumption in matrimonial proceedings for awarding shared parenting of minor children in the absence of an allegation that shared parenting would be detrimental to the best interests of the child; establishes an order of preference in awarding custody; defines shared parenting and parenting plan.
Establishes a division of early childhood within the office of children and family services to coordinate, consolidate and integrate early childhood programs.
Provides that the issue of military deployment shall not be considered as a factor in the awarding of custody in marital actions where a suitable child care plan is presented.
Relates to orders of protection with respect to companion animals; provides further protection for pets by authorizing the court to order a party to either relinquish a pet or to refrain from any contact with a pet.
Provides that a caregiver shall be eligible for assistance for child care under the child care block grant regardless of the hours the parent actually works.
Allows for child protective services workers to complete the required training on the fundamentals of child protection through distance learning methods beginning April 1, 2025.
Establishes the independent office of the child advocate to ensure the protection and promotion of the rights of children in the care of any state agency or local social services district.
Requires statewide training for mandated reporters to include how to identify an abused or maltreated child with an intellectual or developmental disability.
Directs the commissioner of the office of children and family services to establish a consumer directed childcare pilot program for eligible families, within amounts appropriated therefor, in up to five counties with populations between 160,000 and 300,000.