HB333 (2019) Compare Changes


The Bill Text indicates a new section is being inserted. This situation is not handled right now, and the new text is displayed in both the changed and unchanged versions.

Unchanged Version

Text to be removed highlighted in red.

1 Parenting Plan; Counseling. Amend RSA 461-A:4, III to read as follows:

III. If the parties are insured and the parenting plan directs the parties to participate in counseling, the court shall give due consideration to selecting a counselor who accepts direct payment from the parties' health insurance carrier. Whenever possible, the court shall permit the parties to engage in counseling with a qualified mental health provider selected by the parties.

2 New Paragraph; Determination of Parental Rights and Responsibilities; Psychological Evaluation. Amend RSA 461-A:6 by inserting after paragraph IV the following new paragraph:

IV-a. The court shall not order the psychological evaluation of a parent unless the court has documented evidence of child abuse or neglect or domestic violence involving the parent. In such cases, the court shall permit the parent to select the mental health provider to conduct the evaluation, provided that the mental health provider meets any criteria or qualifications established by the court.

3 Effective Date. This act shall take effect January 1, 2020.

Changed Version

Text to be added highlighted in green.

1 Parenting Plan; Counseling. Amend RSA 461-A:4, III to read as follows:

III. If the parties are insured and the parenting plan directs the parties to participate in counseling, the court shall give due consideration to selecting a counselor who accepts direct payment from the parties' health insurance carrier. Whenever possible, the court shall permit the parties to engage in counseling with a qualified mental health provider selected by the parties.

2 New Paragraph; Determination of Parental Rights and Responsibilities; Psychological Evaluation. Amend RSA 461-A:6 by inserting after paragraph IV the following new paragraph:

IV-a. The court shall not order the psychological evaluation of a parent unless the court has documented evidence of child abuse or neglect or domestic violence involving the parent. In such cases, the court shall permit the parent to select the mental health provider to conduct the evaluation, provided that the mental health provider meets any criteria or qualifications established by the court.

3 Effective Date. This act shall take effect January 1, 2020.