Courts could not order certain programs that reunite families

Child services could not recommend, and courts could not order, a covered program if it requires a listed practice. Covered programs include camps, workshops, therapeutic vacations, and educational programs designed to reunite a parent with a child. The bar applies if a program requires a no-contact order, an overnight, out-of-state, or multi-day stay, or a legal or physical custody transfer. It also applies if a program requires unsafe private transport, force or threats, undue pressure, verbal abuse, or isolating a child from family, community, or other support. The provision would take effect July 1, 2026.

The judicial administration office would have to establish and offer the training at least once each calendar year; people presiding over family or juvenile cases would have to attend. This applies to anyone who presides over a family law or juvenile law matter. Training must cover abuse and trauma, bias, effects on children, abuse without a protective order or documented evidence, and relationship patterns. The office's training duties would begin July 1, 2026. Those presiding over covered cases would have to attend starting January 1, 2027.