SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5837

BYSenators Owen, McCaslin, McDonald, Stratton and Nelson

Promoting more child contact with both parents during and after divorce proceedings.

Senate Committee on Law & Justice

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 22, 1989

Senate Staff:Richard Rodger (786-7461)

AS OF FEBRUARY 21, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Under the current domestic relations law a judge is required to make provision for a parenting plan.  The parenting plan includes a day-by-day residential provision for the children.  The judge may accept either parent's proposed plan or set a plan in his or her own discretion.

There is a concern that the residential schedules do not provide each parent adequate time with his or her children.

SUMMARY:

The court gives priority to the proposed parenting plan which provides the child the most contact with each parent.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested