Rep. Jamie Flick of Lycoming/Union has announced the passage of a significant piece of legislation aimed at reforming child custody factors in Pennsylvania. The bill, which passed the House with a 202-1 vote, reduces the number of child custody factors from 16 to 12. It also includes an amendment that mandates family courts to provide a written copy of these new factors to anyone named in a custody petition.
Flick, who has been advocating for equal custody arrangements, stated, “When both parties understand the criteria used by our courts, misunderstandings can be avoided and settlements aligned with the child’s best interests can reached in a more fair and accurate way.” He highlighted his personal experiences where court proceedings did not communicate these factors clearly.
Another proposed amendment by Flick sought to establish a presumption of 50-50 custody if both parents are deemed fit. Although it garnered bipartisan support, it narrowly failed with a vote of 99-103. Despite this setback, Flick remains committed to pursuing this change: “My work continues to get this presumption enacted into law, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on this critical issue.”
Flick shared his own experience where he was granted limited custody despite being an involved father and having served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. He expressed frustration over the process, saying, “In the past I have referred to family court as an organized crime unit due to the amount of revenue the court and lawyers generate from family strife.”
He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in family court proceedings as beneficial for children’s welfare. Flick remarked on studies showing that children without shared parenting face increased risks such as substance abuse and emotional problems.
The legislation now moves forward for consideration by the Senate.
