Amends GS 50-13.2 regarding terms of child custody, establishing a rebuttable presumption that joint custody and shared parenting is in the best interest of the child (previously, required consideration of joint custody upon a parent's request). Defines shared parenting to mean the child spends as close as possible to an equal amount of time with each parent. Requires the court to establish a parenting schedule that maximizes time each parent has with the child that best promotes the interest and welfare of the child if the court determines shared parenting is not warranted. Applies to cases pending or filed on or after the date the act becomes law.