Criminal Law - Interference of Custody Orders - Penalties

SB 744 prohibits knowingly and willfully interfering with a custody order by enticing or withholding a minor from their lawful custodian, a court-appointed guardian, or someone acting as a parent (in loco parentis). It directly affects individuals who disrupt court-ordered custody arrangements involving minors. The bill establishes escalating penalties: a written warning for a first offense (with specific details required), fines up to $250 for a second offense, up to $500 for a third, and misdemeanor penalties (up to 30 days in jail for a fourth offense, up to one year for subsequent offenses). The law takes effect October 1, 2026.