Equal shared parenting has become a hotly contested issue in many states across the United States. Recently, both Florida and Missouri have taken steps to implement equal shared parenting legislation, which could have a significant impact on family law cases in those states. In this blog post, we will discuss what equal shared parenting is, why it has become a contentious issue, and how it is being implemented in Florida and Missouri.
What is Equal Shared Parenting?
Equal shared parenting is a child custody arrangement in which both parents have equal time with their children, typically with a 50/50 split. This means that both parents are responsible for making decisions about their children’s upbringing, such as healthcare, education, and religion. Equal shared parenting is seen as a way to ensure that both parents play an active role in their children’s lives and to promote healthy relationships between parents and children.
Why is Equal Shared Parenting a Controversial Issue?
Equal shared parenting has become a controversial issue in family law cases for a number of reasons. Critics argue that the 50/50 split is not always in the best interest of the child, particularly in cases where there is a history of domestic violence, substance abuse, or other factors that could put the child’s safety at risk. Others argue that equal shared parenting can create additional stress and financial burden on parents, particularly in cases where parents live far apart or have demanding work schedules.
How is Equal Shared Parenting Being Implemented in Florida and Missouri?
Florida recently passed legislation that would create a presumption of equal shared parenting in child custody cases, unless one parent can provide evidence that the arrangement would be detrimental to the child’s well-being. The new law, which goes into effect (unless Governor DeSantis vetoes it) in July 2023, is seen as a major victory for advocates of equal shared parenting, who argue that it will help to ensure that both parents play an active role in their children’s lives. Of special note, Equal Shared Parenting bills have been vetoed 3 times in the past by Gov Scott and DeSantis, albeit the originals had alimony references.
Missouri has also taken steps to implement equal shared parenting, with the passage of a bill in May 2023 (awaiting the governor’s signature). The new law would create a presumption of equal shared parenting in child custody cases unless one parent can provide evidence that the arrangement would be detrimental to the child’s well-being. The law, which goes into effect in August 2023, is seen as a major victory for advocates of equal shared parenting in Missouri.
In conclusion, equal shared parenting has become a contentious issue in family law cases across the United States. With the implementation of new legislation in Florida and Missouri, joining Kentucky, Arkansas, and West Virginia there is growing momentum for equal shared parenting as a way to ensure that both parents play an active role in their children’s lives.
Unfortunately, states like Texas which derive millions of dollars in Title IV-D funding have virtually ignored equal shared parenting bills over the last 20 years. The only way to convince Texas and other states to “get on board” is to band together and demand change. Resources at pissedoffparent.com can be used to assist. The only way this will come to Texas and other states is if enough people demand it.
