As we approach the 2025 legislative session, we find ourselves facing a pivotal moment in which we must reaffirm the bedrock foundations that hold our communities together — strong families and the well-being of our children.
In a world in which parental rights are increasingly challenged and family structures are frayed, it is imperative that we recalibrate our priorities to put children and their needs first.
Families are the backbone of our society in Alabama, yet they deserve far more than the outdated systems that currently govern them. This legislative year, I am proud to introduce two important pieces of legislation aimed at strengthening our families and safeguarding the welfare of our children.
First on my agenda is the reintroduction of the Best Interest of the Child Protection Act – Shared Parenting, a measure that has previously received bipartisan support. This crucial legislation seeks to maximize children’s time with both parents during divorce or separation, ensuring they can maintain essential relationships with both mom and dad, except in cases of abuse or violence.
We have all witnessed the harrowing fallout that results when family dynamics break down. Violence, poverty, and chronic instability often ensue from these fractures, leaving lasting scars on children and the communities they inhabit.
Research consistently shows that children thrive in stable, intact families, which, in turn, fosters lower crime rates and improved mental health outcomes. When families disintegrate, the repercussions can echo for generations, perpetuating a cycle of despair.
Back in 2008, the Alabama Legislature took a courageous step by establishing the Family Law Task Force (HJR30) in order to modernize archaic family laws, yet here we stand in 2025 with many child custody laws still mired in the past.
I have tirelessly advocated for this cause on behalf of children and families since 2011 and remain committed to catalyzing meaningful change. Although we have made strides in the Senate, proposals have routinely stalled within the House, but I enter the legislative session with renewed optimism that common-sense, bipartisan solutions will prevail, finally ushering Alabama’s child custody laws into the 21st century.
The national conversation often leans toward themes of justice and equality, yet we seldom scrutinize how family structures — especially during divorce — impact children. This is precisely where my proposals come into play.
The shared parenting bill is a quest for fairness that is deeply rooted in what is genuinely best for our children. The existing system frequently sidelines one parent, which can lead to profound emotional trauma for children deprived of full access to both nurturing figures.
We can draw inspiration from successful legislation in states like Kentucky, which adopted shared parenting presumption laws in 2017 and 2018. The results have been resoundingly encouraging with fewer contested divorces and children benefiting from stronger relationships with both parents. Don Hubin, chair of the National Parents Organization, aptly noted that these laws are immensely popular and have led to better lives for Kentucky’s children.
Moreover, Judge Mica Wood Pence from Kentucky has witnessed the transformation in her family court that is less combative and more cooperative. While initial resistance existed, the shift towards equal parenting time has proved to benefit children immensely. No child should settle for an “every other weekend” arrangement with one parent when both parents’ active involvement is crucial for healthy development.
This issue transcends party lines. Strong families benefit all regardless of political affiliation. It is our moral duty to enact changes that ensure every Alabama child has the opportunity to grow up in a loving, supportive environment.
I urge my colleagues across party lines, as well as faith communities statewide, to unite behind this cause. Together, we have the power to shape policies that not only protect children but also reinstate the integrity of family units.
Pastor Justin Teate of the Grace Baptist Church eloquently stated, “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” This guiding principle implores us to take action to heal what has been fractured, to advocate for our children, and to rebuild family structures disserved by archaic and misguided laws.
And according to Mark Ludwig of Americans For Equal Shared Parenting, forming coalitions and collectively advocating for children’s access to both parents is key to safeguarding the rights of the next generation.
Now is the time to act.
As we prepare for the 2025 session, let us work together to create a future in which every family thrives, and every child has the opportunity to succeed. By restoring faith in the power of strong families, we strengthen the very foundation of our society.
We must take definitive action now — because the future of our children depends on it.
View the legislation handout here.
State Rep. Kenneth Paschal, who retired from the U.S. Army after 21 years of service, represents District 73 in the Alabama House of Representatives.
