Family protection bills to strengthen child welfare in Michigan
LANSING, Mich., Oct. 16, 2024 — State Reps. Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit), Kara Hope (D-Holt) and Sharon MacDonell (D-Troy) recently introduced Kayden’s Law. This legislation is in honor of Kayden Mancuso, a 7 year-old girl who was murdered by her father during a court-ordered unsupervised custody visit, despite her mother raising safety concerns in court. House Bills 6006–09 are aimed at strengthening child protections during custody and parenting disputes, especially when assaultive behavior is present.
“Kayden’s Law is about improving the well-being of children, who are the innocent parties in parenting disputes or custody battles. Every child in this situation deserves protection, especially in instances where one of the parents has exhibited assaultive behaviors. This legislation is child-centered and prioritizes the child’s need for safety, sound mental health and a caring, stable environment,” said Young, chair of the House Families, Children and Seniors Committee.
This package can significantly impact the mental and physical health of children involved in these court proceedings. This legislation minimizes the risk of children being exposed to harmful situations that can lead to emotional, physical trauma and even death.
“We’re giving children the protection they so deserve. When children have lived with violence in the home, courts should consider each parent’s full spectrum of behaviors when deciding custody arrangements. We must do what we can to minimize exposing children to this type of trauma. Kayden’s Law is a clear step in the right direction, putting the children first while parents work out their issues,” Hope said.
The bills are tied to efforts aimed at reforming how family courts consider evidence related to parenting time, ensuring that courts prioritize children’s best interests when making decisions. Under the legislation, courts will be required to examine the full scope of a parent’s actions to keep children placed in the safest possible environment.
“Kayden’s Law is one more example of how we are putting the future of Michigan’s kids first. We’re saying to the family courts that the behaviors and actions of the parents deserve more exploration when considering who and where’s the best fit for that child to thrive. Most importantly, we’re saying to children in the middle of parenting conflicts that we’re going to protect you. They deserve it. This legislation puts the attention back on them,” MacDonell said.
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