2024 House Resolution 309

Whereas, The mission of Family Court Awareness Month is to raise awareness about the importance of a family court system that prioritizes child safety and acts in the best interests of children. Family Court Awareness Month also aims to improve recognition among court professionals, legislators, and the public that family court decisions have profound and lasting impacts on the lives of children and families, making it essential that these decisions are informed by the latest research and best practices in child safety; and

Whereas, An estimated 58,000 children in the U.S. are ordered into unsupervised contact with abusive parents each year, resulting in hundreds of child murders during visitation with a dangerous parent. In Michigan, thirty-nine children have been killed by a parent since 2008 during divorce or custody disputes; and

Whereas, In September 2021, 3-year-old Dylan Thebo was fatally shot by his father in a murder-suicide during court-ordered visitation in Kent County. Dylan’s mother had made repeated efforts to report her ex-husband’s abuse and threats to six different entities; and

Whereas, Kent County, Michigan, following six domestic violence-related homicides within three months in 2021, recognized the need for a specialized Domestic Violence Court. This court, staffed by individuals knowledgeable about the intricacies of domestic violence, aims to support victims and families, hold offenders accountable, and prevent further homicides; and

Whereas, The mission of Family Court Awareness Month is to promote judicial education and awareness about the necessity of using scientifically validated, evidence-based treatment programs that are proven to be safe and effective. This education for judges and all professionals involved in family court cases should include training on domestic violence, child abuse (emotional, psychological, physical, and sexual), childhood trauma, coercive control, and post-separation abuse; and

Whereas, FCAM is dedicated to educating judges and family court professionals on the importance of incorporating evidence-based, peer-reviewed research into their decision-making. This includes the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study; Child Custody Evaluators’ Beliefs About Domestic Abuse Allegations; and Child Custody Outcomes in Cases Involving Parental Alienation and Abuse Allegations. This research reveals a prevalent gender bias against mothers who report abuse in family courts, despite false allegations being rare, and emphasizes the need for impartial decision-making to protect children’s well-being; and

Whereas, Family Court Awareness Month aims to encourage collaboration among legislators, advocates, professionals, and the community to improve family court practices, ensuring they are guided by evidence-based research and prioritize the safety and best interests of children; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare November 2024 as Family Court Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.