MN HF1135

Parents in marriage dissolution or legal separation proceedings involving minor children must complete a four-hour education program before the first court appearance or within 30 days of filing, whichever is sooner.

Education programs must cover constructive parenting skills, effects of dissolution on children, conflict reduction strategies, domestic violence resources, legal process options (including mediation and alternative dispute resolution), and reconciliation resources.

Programs may be offered in person or online and must meet scientific evidence standards for effectiveness, either through listing on the National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices or approval by the Minnesota couples on the brink project.

Parties qualifying for fee waivers are exempt from program costs, and all providers must implement sliding fee scales to ensure timely and reasonable access to education sessions.

District court judges must receive ongoing training on parenting plans, and courts may exempt parties from the requirement for good cause, including language barriers, best interest of child concerns, or inability to afford fees.