Legislature revises parent time bill to clarify visitation rights and schedules

A significant shift in family law was highlighted during the recent government meeting, as lawmakers discussed a new bill aimed at redefining parental visitation rights. Representative Snow emphasized the evolution of terminology and practices in family law over the past four decades, noting that terms like "visitation" have been replaced with "parent time," reflecting a more equitable approach to custody arrangements.

The proposed legislation seeks to clarify and define key terms related to parental time, including "supervised parent time," "surrogate care," and "virtual parent time." It establishes a minimum schedule for parent time for children aged 5 to 18, creating a structured chart for alternating holidays and ensuring both custodial and non-custodial parents have designated time with their children.

One of the bill's key features is its provision for parents to notify each other of any changes to the parent time schedule, promoting better communication and planning. While the bill encourages parents to work out their own arrangements, it also provides the court with guidelines to enforce a fair schedule if parents are unable to agree.

This legislative move is seen as a step forward in ensuring that children maintain meaningful relationships with both parents, regardless of their living arrangements. As discussions continue, the implications of this bill could reshape how parental time is approached in Utah, fostering a more balanced and supportive environment for families.