Colorado Limits Use Of Family Reunification Treatment As Remedy For Parental Alienation In Child Custody Arrangements

On May 25, 2023, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed House Bill 23-1178 (HB23-1178), to limit the use of “family reunification treatment” to remedy parental alienation in custody cases where domestic violence or abuse has been alleged. The legislation provides for additional training of court personnel to enhance recognition of domestic violence, including the recognition of child abuse.

Colorado’s law is the first in the nation to comply with the federal “Keeping Children Safe From Family Violence Act” enacted in March 2022. Like the federal law, the Colorado bill prohibits the courts from ordering reunification treatment that involves . . .