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Sent to Sioux Falls Argus Leader - 2/9/03
Senate Bill 60 passed the South Dakota Senate. It is no longer a shared parenting bill.
Currently, unless both parents agree, one parent (typically the mother) is awarded primary responsibility over raising a child and 74% parenting time. They can move the child away from the other parent, their school, friends and relatives without notice or serious judicial consideration.
This perverse “system” of raising one parent over the other and awarding custodial authority to the parent who says “no” to equal shared parenting is wrong. It promotes hostility and competition instead of cooperation.
In contrast, Wisconsin assumes a child will have regular, meaningful and maximized periods (50/50) of time with both parents unless harmful. Many states require notice and serious consideration of a potential move.
Change is needed to recognize the significant importance of both parents in the development of their children. Most parents want to be a nurturing part of their children's lives after separation or divorce.
Please join us in sending a strong message to our Representatives, Governor and the UJS that a “true” shared parenting bill is best for our children in South Dakota. For more information, call 605-260-3000 or visit our website at http://sdsharedparent.tripod.com.
Steven D. Mathis, president
South Dakota Coalition for Shared Parenting
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