Senator Lewis and Mass. Senate modernize child custody laws to protect children and families

On July 17, 2025, Senator Jason Lewis joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts Senate to unanimously pass legislation to modernize laws that protect children and families going through child custody proceedings. The legislation seeks to ensure Massachusetts courts follow the same procedures as the other 49 U.S. states, bring laws up to date with international best practices and simplify the process for families going through multi-state custody cases. On July 21 the Massachusetts House referred the bill to its committee on Ways and Means.

“I was pleased to vote for this legislation to prioritize the safety and well-being of children involved in custody proceedings,” said Senator Lewis. “This bill will streamline and simplify these difficult situations for families and will bring Massachusetts in line with other states and best practices.”

The bill creates clear rules for multi-state custody cases and prioritizes the home state of the child when determining custody jurisdiction, thereby preventing “forum shopping” by a parent seeking a more favorable outcome in another state. It also updates the law to streamline case registration and enforce out-of-state determinations, enhances protections for children and families who are going through custody proceedings in Massachusetts and boosts flexibility for families through the creation of hearing notice requirements and by allowing remote participation in proceedings.