Custody laws proposing equal parenting time
Approximately 20 states are proposing laws that would change how custody is determined after separation or divorce. Generally the laws would encourage the maximum time for each parent. In New York and Washington, the laws are proposing equal time between parenting.
Many judges in the District of Columbia are already ruling for equal time between parents. Proponents of giving parents equal time say that the children benefit when they can spend as much time with both parents as possible. Additionally, some say equal parenting laws will reduce legal fees in fighting custody battles in court. However, opponents say that mandating equal parenting takes away the discretion from the Judges presiding over the cases, and give more power to abusive parents.