HB 1421 -- Child Relocation

Sponsor:  Dougherty

Under the current child relocation law, a custodial parent
wishing to relocate with a child must provide 60 days written
notice, which must include certain information and a brief
statement why the move is in the best interest of the child.
This bill shortens the notice period to 45 days and requires a
detailed statement of why the move is in the best interest of
the child.  The bill also requires a noncustodial parent who
opposes the move to respond with a detailed statement of the
specific reasons why the move would not be in the child's best
interest, and requires the court to issue its ruling within 60
days.  Under current law, a noncustodial parent who objects in
good faith to the move cannot be ordered to pay the other
party's costs and attorneys fees.  The bill adds to this
provision by requiring a noncustodial parent who objects in bad
faith to the move to pay such costs and fees.