OLYMPIA — Children and survivors of domestic abuse will have stronger protections under a new law signed today by Governor Ferguson.
House Bill 1620, sponsored by Rep. Jamila Taylor (D-Federal Way), updates Washington’s parenting plan statutes to better safeguard children and increase protections for survivors. The new law reorganizes and modernizes outdated language, introduces new definitions and standards, and was passed with bipartisan support in both chambers before being finalized through concurrence and delivered to the Governor.
“As a family law attorney focusing on high-conflict cases, I know how difficult these situations can be for everyone involved,” said Rep. Taylor. “Extra time spent wading through unclear statutes doesn’t help anyone and places a greater burden on everyone involved. This law will make our system safer, clearer, and fairer for families.”
The bill addresses confusing, inconsistent rules for how courts impose limitations on parenting plans by clarifying judicial guidance. Key improvements to the law include:
- Stronger Protections: Establishes mandatory limitations in cases involving domestic violence, sexual assault, or child abuse, making it easier for courts to prioritize child safety.
- Mandatory Written Findings: Requires judges to issue clear, detailed written findings showing “clear and convincing evidence” when allowing parent-child contact in high-risk cases.
- Clear Supervision Guidelines: Strengthens safeguards around lay supervision by requiring supporting evidence and detailed findings to ensure safe interactions.
Research shows that children who maintain relationships with both parents are more likely to thrive emotionally, academically, and socially. But, in some cases, when restrictions must be placed on a parent and judges must have clear guidance on how to weigh to complex facts and information.
“We know that in most cases, more parental involvement in a child’s life is essential to their well-being, emotional development, and even academic outcomes,” Rep. Taylor said. “But that’s not always the case. Updating the law will protect more children from experiencing trauma and harm that they carry for the rest of their lives.”