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In recent Connecticut family law news, significant changes are on the horizon as the state legislature passes new legislation aimed at improving child custody and support arrangements. The bill, which was signed into law by Governor Emily Johnson on March 13, 2026, is set to go into effect on January 1, 2027.One of the key provisions of the new law is the establishment of a presumption of shared physical custody in cases of divorce or separation. This means that both parents will be presumed to have equal time with their children unless it can be proven that such an arrangement would not be in the best interests of the child. This shift towards a more egalitarian approach to custody is in line with recent research that suggests children benefit from having meaningful relationships with both parents.Additionally, the new law includes changes to the way child support payments are calculated. Under the current system, child support is determined based on a percentage of the non-custodial parent's income. However, the new legislation will take into account the income of both parents in order to ensure that child support payments are fair and reflective of the financial circumstances of both parties.Furthermore, the law aims to streamline the process of modifying child custody and support orders. Under the current system, parents must go through a lengthy and often costly legal process in order to make changes to existing orders. The new legislation will allow for a more expedited and simplified process, making it easier for parents to address changing circumstances as their children grow and their financial situations evolve.Overall, the new legislation represents a significant step forward in the realm of family law in Connecticut. By prioritizing the best interests of children and promoting fairness and equity in custody and support arrangements, the state hopes to foster healthier relationships between parents and children following divorce or separation. The implementation of these changes is expected to have a positive impact on families throughout the state for years to come.