In a recent government meeting, Assembly Bill 3072 was presented to enhance child safety during custody disputes. The bill, introduced on behalf of Assembly Member Petrie Norris, aims to address concerns regarding potential risks to children in custody battles, particularly in cases involving domestic violence and firearm access.
The proposed legislation includes two key provisions. First, it mandates that courts consider a parent's illegal access to firearms when determining the risk of immediate harm to a child. Second, it empowers courts to limit or suspend visitation rights, or to require virtual visitation, if such measures are deemed to better serve the child's best interests.
Support for the bill was voiced by representatives from various organizations, including Giffords, a national gun violence prevention group, and the Legislative Coalition to Prevent Child Abuse. They emphasized the importance of the bill in mitigating risks associated with domestic violence during custody proceedings.
The committee unanimously supported the bill, with all members voting in favor. The discussion highlighted the diligent efforts of the judiciary staff in refining the legislation, ensuring it addresses critical safety concerns effectively.
As the bill moves forward, it reflects a growing recognition of the need to prioritize child safety in legal contexts where domestic violence and firearm access are potential threats.