CA SB616

Amends Family Code sections 3020 and 3026 and Government Code sections 68553 and 68555 to prioritize child safety in custody proceedings by making child safety paramount when it conflicts with policies promoting parental contact.

Expands the definition of prohibited family reunification services to include reunification therapy, treatments, programs, workshops, or camps predicated on cutting off a child from a parent with whom the child is bonded or attached.

Requires judges, referees, commissioners, mediators, child custody recommending counselors, and evaluators involved in child custody proceedings to participate in continuing education on domestic violence and child abuse.

Establishes minimum training requirements: 25 hours for initial orientation and 20 hours every three years for family law judges and personnel, covering child sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, coercive control, bias, trauma, and violence dynamics.

Designates family law training programs to be designed to recognize and respond to child abuse, domestic violence, and trauma while making custody decisions that prioritize child safety and well-being and are culturally responsive.