MN HF69

Amends the definition of "joint physical custody" to require parents share time with the child "as equally as possible"

Establishes a rebuttable presumption that both parents are entitled to joint legal and physical custody in cases of marital dissolution or when paternity is established for unmarried parents

Requires clear and convincing evidence of parental unfitness causing substantial harm to overcome the presumption; allegations alone of substance abuse, mental illness, or abuse are insufficient without written findings of substantiated abuse

Mandates courts provide written findings of fact and conclusions of law when deviating from joint custody, enumerating which factors and evidence support the deviation

Repeals Minnesota Statutes 2010, section 518.17, subdivision 2