MN SF1215

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

Education programs must meet scientific evidence standards for reducing parental conflict and improving children's adjustment, either through listing on the National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices or approval by the Minnesota couples on the brink project.

Required program content includes information on domestic violence assessment and resources, constructive parenting skills, and an overview of the legal dissolution process including mediation and alternative dispute resolution options.

Parties who qualify for fee waivers are exempt from paying program fees, and providers must implement sliding fee scales to ensure timely and reasonable access to education sessions.

Statements made during parent education programs are confidential and inadmissible as evidence, and instructors cannot be subpoenaed as witnesses in court proceedings.

The effective date is January 1, 2014, and applies to proceedings where the initial pleading is served or joint petition is signed on or after that date.