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SC S0901

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/10/2026

Primary Sponsor

Joshua Kimbrell

Click for details

Origin

Senate

126th General Assembly

AI Summary

  • Establishes a rebuttable presumption that joint custody with equal or approximately equal parenting time is in the child's best interest; courts must make written findings explaining any deviation from equal parenting time

  • Requires guardians ad litem to pass drug testing prior to initial appointment and annually thereafter, with positive results or refusal being grounds for disqualification

  • Allows parties to file motions disputing guardian ad litem appointments based on misconduct and requires guardians to establish positive relationships with both parents

  • Makes false or unfounded allegations of abuse against the other parent a material change of circumstances warranting custody modification, with potential court costs assessed against the offending parent

  • Adds expedited proceedings requirement for low-income parties (household income at 200% of federal poverty level) to control guardian ad litem costs

Legislative Description

Equal Parenting Act

Last Action

Referred to Committee on Judiciary

2/10/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary2/10/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available