Michigan Senate Bill SB0941

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/29/26
• Refer: 4/29/26

Caption

Family law: child custody; factors determining best interest of child in joint custody; include equal time with both parents as a factor. Amends secs. 6a & 7a of 1970 PA 91 (MCL 722.26a & 722.27a). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0940'26, SB 0942'26

Impact

If enacted, SB0941 is expected to influence existing custody arrangements across the state, aligning them more closely with modern understandings of parental involvement. The inclusion of equal time as a legal factor could lead to more joint custody cases being granted, potentially reducing the number of primary caregiver situations where one parent is favored over the other. This shift could reshape the landscape of family law, moving towards a more equitable approach in custody matters.

Summary

SB0941 is a legislative bill focused on family law, specifically addressing the factors that determine the best interest of a child in joint custody arrangements. The bill seeks to formalize equal time with both parents as a central factor in custody decisions, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of shared parenting. By introducing this factor legislatively, SB0941 aims to promote balanced parental involvement post-separation, which proponents argue is beneficial for the emotional and psychological well-being of children.

Contention

However, the bill is not without contention. Critics argue that while equal time is ideal in many situations, one size does not fit all when it comes to custodial arrangements. They raise concerns about the one-sided application of equal parenting time in cases where it may not serve the child's best interest, such as situations involving domestic violence or other safety concerns. This highlights the need for nuanced considerations in custody decisions, which may not always align with the intent of SB0941.