An act relating to parental rights and responsibilities

This Vermont bill (S.304) establishes a rebuttable presumption that shared parental rights and responsibilities are in a child's best interest after separation or divorce. It directly affects parents in custody cases and courts deciding child welfare, requiring judges to prioritize shared parenting unless harm is likely. Key provisions include defining "parental rights" (covering education, health, and daily care), listing specific factors courts must consider (like parent-child relationships and communication ability), and banning sex-based preferences in custody decisions. The bill aims to encourage ongoing parental involvement while ensuring courts evaluate all relevant circumstances objectively.