Bill Protects Servicemembers During Custody Battles

The state Senate Thursday unanimously approved legislation that would ensure active-duty military parents are not punished for not appearing in court over custody disputes while serving overseas and that they would retain custody as long as the child is in a safe environment.

The measure would mandate that – unless the best interests of the child are being violated – the court shall not modify the current parenting time order if one of the parties has filed a motion of stay under the federal Service members Civil Relief Act.

Republican Senator Rick Jones of Grand Ledge says his legislation will ensure Michigan respects previous custody rulings while a parent is serving the nation overseas and will fill in loopholes in the law so that no member of our armed forces has to go through the ordeal.

The bill now heads to the House for consideration.