Colorado Democrats Reignite Gender Identity Debate in Child Custody Law
Colorado Democrats are proposing to incorporate gender identity considerations into child custody laws, which has sparked debate. Supporters argue it protects children, while critics fear it politicizes custody decisions and undermines parental rights.…
When “Family Preservation” Becomes State Neglect
In Washington State, reforms intended to keep families intact may inadvertently leave vulnerable children at risk and offer less protection to parents. Critics argue that higher intervention thresholds compromise safety and accountability, leading to…
When Custody Exchanges Turn Dangerous
A recent arrest in Barstow, California, highlights significant flaws in family court systems regarding custody exchanges, which often escalate into dangerous situations for children. The incident raises concerns about the handling and monitoring of such…
New Mexico Ends a Practice That Should Never Have Been Normal
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has banned children in state custody from sleeping overnight in government offices, addressing a serious failure in the child welfare system. This order emphasizes the state's responsibility to provide safe…
Idaho Lawmakers Take On a Family Court System Parents Say Has Been Broken for Years
Idaho lawmakers are working on a reform bill to modernize the family court system, responding to long-standing complaints from parents about delays, vague orders, and enforcement issues. The bipartisan task force aims to clarify custody laws, improve…
When the Court Helps Families Heal: Why West Virginia’s Family Treatment Courts Matter
West Virginia's Family Treatment Court program, crucial for helping parents with substance use disorders reunite with their children, faces funding challenges as federal grants expire. The Supreme Court requests $1.4 million to ensure its continuation…
Oregon Lawmaker Reintroduces Foster Youth Rights Bill After Gov. Kotek’s Veto
Oregon has reintroduced a foster youth “bill of rights” aimed at establishing standards for children in foster care, after a previous veto by Governor Kotek due to concerns over costs and feasibility. Supporters advocate for accountability, while critics…
New Hampshire’s HB 652: A Warning—and a Signal—to Parents Nationwide
New Hampshire's HB 652 proposes dismantling specialized Family Division courts in favor of mediation-first models, resonating with parents frustrated by current family court practices. Supporters argue it acknowledges systemic harms and promotes…
A “Temporary” Order That Never Ended: Lawsuit Highlights Four Years of Father–Child Separation in Maryland
A lawsuit in Baltimore County highlights the issue of temporary family court orders becoming permanent, resulting in prolonged separation between a father, Jeff Reichert, and his son, Grant. Reichert claims a no-contact order led to nearly four years of…
New York Ends Anonymous CPS Hotline Calls — A Shift That Matters for Parents in Family Court
In December 2025, New York's Anti-Harassment in Reporting Act mandates that anyone reporting child abuse or neglect must provide their name and contact information, ending total anonymity for informants. This law aims to prevent misuse of anonymous CPS…