HB 1054 Summary

• Creates the Uniform Deployed Parents Custody and Visitation Act to establish procedures for temporary custody and visitation arrangements when a military service member is deployed for more than 90 days but less than 18 months.

• Allows parents to enter into written agreements granting temporary custodial responsibility during deployment, including caretaking authority, decision-making authority, and limited contact with nonparents, which must be filed with the court.

• Authorizes courts to issue temporary custody orders during deployment without requiring the deployed parent's consent, but prohibits permanent custody orders without consent, and permits testimony by electronic means when parties cannot appear in person.

• Specifies that temporary custody arrangements automatically terminate 60 days after the deployed parent returns from deployment unless modified by court order or mutual agreement, and requires reasonable contact between deployed parent and child during return period.

• Clarifies that a parent's military service and past or potential future deployment cannot alone be considered in custody determinations, though significant impacts on the child's best interest may be considered.