Every child deserves a safe, loving, and stable relationship with both parents whenever possible. That simple idea is at the heart of Michigan’s HB 5211–5213, the “What’s Best for Kids” package. These bills update our family law so that courts begin from a clear, child-centered starting point: kids do best when they have strong, consistent bonds with both fit and loving parents.

HB 5211 recognizes equal or nearly equal parenting time as an important factor in determining a child’s best interests, while still requiring judges to look carefully at each family’s unique circumstances.[1] HB 5212 and HB 5213 work together to ensure parents have clear information about this standard and that families understand how decisions are made in court.[1]

This is not about winning or losing custody. It is about reducing conflict, encouraging cooperation, and giving children more time with the people who love them most. When the law is transparent and consistent, families can spend less energy fighting in court and more energy helping kids feel secure during one of the most stressful times in their lives.

By supporting HB 5211–5213, you are standing up for a future where Michigan’s family courts are guided by what research, experience, and common sense all tell us: when it is safe and appropriate, kids thrive with meaningful time and real relationships with both parents. Let’s make “what’s best for kids” more than a slogan — let’s make it the standard.

[1] https://fastdemocracy.com/bill-search/mi/2025-2026/bills/MIB00028101/[1] https://trackbill.com/bill/michigan-house-bill-5213-family-law-child-custody-information-on-the-presumption-of-equal-or-approximately-equal-parenting-time-require-the-friend-of-the-court-to-provide-amends-sec-5-of-1982-pa-294-mcl-552-505-tie-bar-with-hb-5211-25-hb-5212-25/2748222/