VT H0369

Creates a rebuttable presumption that shared parental rights and responsibilities are in the best interests of the child following parental separation or divorce

Establishes state policy encouraging maximum continuing physical and emotional contact with both parents, unless direct physical harm or significant emotional harm to the child or parent is likely

Repeals the "primary care provider" factor that courts previously considered when determining custody arrangements

Expands the definition of parent-child contact to include written, telephonic, and electronic contact in addition to physical contact

Removes the requirement that courts award parental rights primarily or solely to one parent when parents cannot agree, replacing it with the shared custody presumption

Effective date: July 1, 2025