By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters say would simplify and modernize child custody jurisdiction laws in the Bay State.

Supporters, noting Massachusetts is the only one of the 50 states that has not opted into this law, argued the pact will make the Bay State’s interstate custody laws consistent with the 49 other states. They noted the bill would create clear rules that would be established for multi-state custody cases, prioritizing the home state of the child and ensuring Massachusetts courts can work effectively with courts in other states, nationally and in other countries for international child custody orders.

“I’m proud that the Massachusetts Senate passed my legislation to bring Massachusetts in line with the rest of the nation by enacting the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act,” said sponsor Sen. Cynthia Stone Creem (D-Newton). “I am grateful to have the support of the Boston Bar Association, the Massachusetts Bar Association, and the Massachusetts chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers behind this important bill.”

“Today’s legislation aims to simplify a process that is already difficult for children and families,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). “Bringing Massachusetts in line with other states nationally will enhance the wellbeing of people going through this process and give families clarity in their path forward.”

The Senate approved similar bills in 2016 and 2018 but the bills died in the House from inaction.