MN SF4343

Creates a rebuttable presumption that joint legal and physical custody is in the best interests of the child when requested by either or both parents, replacing current law that states there is no presumption for or against joint physical custody

Increases the presumptive minimum parenting time from 25% to 50% for each parent in the absence of other evidence

Maintains an exception where joint custody is presumed NOT to be in the child's best interests if domestic abuse has occurred between the parents

Effective date is August 1, 2026, applying to proceedings beginning on or after that date

Amends Minnesota Statutes sections 518.17 (best interests of the child) and 518.175 (parenting time)