The decision rejected the consideration of racial bias in child custody proceedings as unconstitutional under the 14th Amendment.

[1] Today, the case is taught in many constitutional law courses in the United States as an example of the application of the doctrine of strict scrutiny.

[3][4] In September 1981, Sidoti filed to modify the original custody award, citing "changed conditions."

"[3] Even so, the Court awarded custody to Sidoti because Melanie would suffer peer pressure and stigmatization if allowed to grow up in an interracial household.

[6] The Palmore decision has been cited as prohibiting judges from considering parents' sexual orientation in custody proceedings.