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HF 667

A bill for an act creating the uniform family law arbitration Act.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Brian Lohse

HF 667 establishes a standardized arbitration process for family law disputes, ensuring safety and efficiency while reducing court burdens for families and arbitrators.

Introduced, referred to Judiciary.
#arbitration #domesticrelations
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Bill Summary · HF 667

Summary of HF 667: Uniform Family Law Arbitration Act

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HF 667
- Title: A bill for an act creating the uniform family law arbitration Act.
- Status: Introduced, referred to Judiciary.
- Introduced Date: February 28, 2025
- Classification: Bill
- Subject: Arbitration, Domestic Relations

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HF 667 is to establish a standardized framework for arbitration in family law disputes. This legislation aims to provide a more efficient and structured process for resolving issues related to domestic relations, including child custody, support, and other family matters, outside of the traditional court system.

Key Provisions

HF 667 includes several significant provisions designed to ensure fairness and safety in the arbitration process:

  1. Arbitrator's Authority:

    • The arbitrator has the power to select arbitration rules, conduct prehearing conferences, administer oaths, and allow prehearing discovery.
    • The arbitrator can determine the admissibility of evidence and subpoena witnesses or documents.

  2. Protection Measures:

    • If a party is under a protection order or if there are concerns about domestic violence, the arbitrator must stay the arbitration and refer the parties to court.
    • Arbitration cannot resume until the affected party affirms their agreement in a record, and the court verifies that this affirmation is informed and voluntary.

  3. Child Safety Protocols:

    • If the arbitrator suspects that a child involved in the arbitration is being abused or neglected, the arbitration must be terminated, and the matter reported to the appropriate authorities.

  4. Conduct of Arbitration:

    • The arbitrator is required to conduct proceedings in a manner that is fair and expedient.
    • The bill does not mandate that arbitration hearings be recorded.

  5. Award Documentation:

    • Any arbitration award must be documented in a record, dated, and signed by the arbitrator.

Impact

The implementation of HF 667 is expected to affect various stakeholders, including:

  • Families: Families engaged in disputes will have access to a potentially quicker and less adversarial resolution process.
  • Arbitrators: Professionals in family law arbitration will have clear guidelines and authority to manage cases effectively.
  • Courts: The bill may reduce the burden on court systems by providing an alternative dispute resolution mechanism for family law matters.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: The bill was introduced on February 28, 2025, and has been referred to the Judiciary Committee for further consideration.
  • Next Steps: The Judiciary Committee will review the bill, and it may undergo amendments before being brought to the floor for a vote.

HF 667 represents a significant step towards modernizing family law arbitration, aiming to enhance the safety and efficiency of resolving domestic disputes.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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