Task force endorses 'parenting education' requirement for contested custody cases, leaves content and cost for later work

The Child Custody Review Task Force voted to recommend draft 27.0075, changing the bill language from "family transition program" to "parenting education course" and approving a version that applies to contested parental rights and responsibility proceedings.

Judge James Hovey said judges currently include education in scheduling orders and supported replacing the draft’s trademarked phrasing. Beth Dittus, legislative council staff, said the intent was to provide flexibility so judges could order coursework that fit local needs and avoid mandating a specific private program.

The task force debated scope and content at length. Critics warned the draft lacked specificity about course content, cost and exemptions. Committee member Derek Sherwood argued the bill was ‘‘vague’’ and could impose mandatory programs without individualized findings; he urged clear content, cost limits and waiver paths. Supporters said model programs such as Parents Forever already operate in the region and that education could reduce conflict and later litigation. Several members recommended the committee consider adding curriculum items that would educate parents about the court process, co‑parenting, parental alienation, harassment risks and contempt consequences.

After amendments and discussion, the task force approved the revised draft on a roll‑call vote (7 yes, 4 no). The motion carried and the draft will be included in the final report to legislative management for further development during interim committee hearings, where course content, development and any fee or waiver structure can be addressed.

The task force did not prescribe who must deliver the course; members discussed asking the Supreme Court to produce a standardized informational video or directing development through a separate process, but left those decisions for later work.