AL HB53

Amends Alabama Code Sections 30-3-150, 30-3-151, 30-3-152, and 30-3-153 to establish a rebuttable presumption that joint legal custody and substantial parenting time for both parents is in the best interest of the child, except in cases of domestic or family violence.

Presumption may be rebutted by a preponderance of the evidence; if not rebutted, courts must award joint legal custody, frequent and continuing contact, and substantial parenting time with both parents.

Courts must consider specific factors when deciding custody, including parental agreement, ability to cooperate, ability to encourage parent-child relationships, history of abuse or kidnapping, geographic proximity, and emotional bonds between child and parents.

Requires final custody orders to address parenting time during school year, summer, holidays, and special days, plus telephone communication, access to medical and educational records, school activities, and child support arrangements.

Becomes effective October 1, 2025; passed House with 100 yeas, 1 nay, and 1 abstention on April 29, 2025.