MA H1942

Replaces Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 209B with the updated Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), establishing standardized rules for determining which state has jurisdiction over child custody cases

Establishes "home state" jurisdiction as the primary basis for custody determinations, defined as where a child lived with a parent for at least 6 consecutive months before proceedings began

Creates procedures for enforcing out-of-state custody orders, including expedited hearings that must occur on the next judicial day after service and provisions for warrants to take physical custody of children at imminent risk of harm

Requires Massachusetts courts to recognize and enforce custody determinations from other states, Indian tribes, and foreign countries that substantially comply with the act's jurisdictional standards

Includes protections for domestic violence victims, allowing address confidentiality and requiring courts to consider domestic violence when determining appropriate forum, with an effective date of December 31, 2024