Family Law - Denial or Interference With Visitation Rights

SB 481 requires Maryland courts to mandate additional visitation time when a parent unjustifiably blocks court-ordered visitation. If a court finds a parent blocked visitation, it must order: (1) double the duration of the blocked visit, (2) the same type of visit (weekend, holiday, or summer), and (3) scheduled at the other parent’s chosen time - all within two years of the ruling. This applies directly to parents who deny or interfere with visitation rights under existing custody orders. The law strengthens enforcement by making the visitation remedy mandatory, rather than optional, while prioritizing the child’s best interests. It does not change visitation rights themselves but adds a specific, structured consequence for violations.