State Rep. Patrick Sellers (D-Pleasant Grove) has pre-filed a bill for the upcoming 2025 legislative session that would give men in Alabama who voluntarily acknowledge they fathered a child out of wedlock all the legal rights and duties of a parent.
The "Good Father Act" would work in tandem with legislation previously filed by Sellers, creating a legal assumption that joint custody is in a child's best interest in divorce cases.
SEE: State Rep. Sellers files bill to increase joint custody in divorce cases in the state
The Act would only apply when the mother consented to the father receiving full parental rights. The bill would not apply in cases of domestic or family violence.
"The main reason I'm coming with this bill is to give children the most wholesome environment possible given the situation and to give both parents equal time with the child," Sellers said. "Hopefully, this will prevent detrimental effects that arise when a child is raised by only one parent."
Under the bill's provisions, in cases involving child custody, visitation or child support, a judge would be required to consider joint custody and shared parenting time the best option unless later evidence shows otherwise. The bill would also prevent a parent from taking a child out of state unless both parties or the court decide otherwise.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
