IN SB0201

Expands the definition of "domestic or family violence" to include non-physical acts such as verbal, emotional, economic, litigious, and psychological abuse, as well as isolation, controlling behavior, monitoring, stalking, and threats to seek custody as coercion

Prohibits juvenile courts from releasing children adjudicated as in need of services back to their parent, guardian, or custodian unless appropriate safety conditions are ordered to ensure the child's protection

Requires the Office of Judicial Administration to develop and implement ongoing training for judges, magistrates, guardians ad litem, court appointed special advocates, and mediators on child abuse and domestic violence

Mandates that the training program cover sexual, physical, and emotional abuse, implicit and explicit bias, trauma, and evidence-based best practices for making custody decisions in the child's best interest

Effective date: July 1, 2026