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In a landmark decision on July 1, 2025, the Kansas state legislature passed a series of new family law reforms aimed at providing greater support and protection for children and families across the state. The legislation, which was signed into law by Governor Sarah Hamilton, represents a significant step forward in modernizing the state's family law system and addressing the evolving needs of families in Kansas.One of the key provisions of the new legislation is the establishment of a presumption of shared parenting in child custody cases. Under this new provision, judges will be required to start from the assumption that both parents should have equal rights and responsibilities in caring for their children, unless there is clear evidence to show that one parent is unfit or poses a danger to the child. This change aims to promote greater cooperation and collaboration between parents following a divorce or separation, and to ensure that children maintain strong relationships with both parents.In addition to the shared parenting provision, the new legislation also includes measures to streamline the process for establishing child support payments and to ensure that children receive adequate financial support from both parents. The law sets guidelines for calculating child support based on the income of both parents, as well as the specific needs of the child, such as education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. These guidelines are intended to promote fairness and consistency in child support determinations, and to help ensure that children are provided for regardless of their parents' relationship status.Furthermore, the new legislation includes provisions to strengthen protections for victims of domestic violence in family law cases. Judges will now be required to consider allegations of domestic violence or abuse when making decisions about child custody and visitation, and to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all family members. These changes aim to provide greater support and protection for survivors of domestic violence, and to prioritize the safety of children in family law proceedings.Overall, the passage of this comprehensive family law reform package represents a significant victory for children and families in Kansas. By emphasizing shared parenting, fair child support guidelines, and enhanced protections for victims of domestic violence, the state is taking important steps to support and strengthen families during times of transition and hardship. As these new laws take effect, it is hoped that they will contribute to a more equitable and child-centered family law system in Kansas for years to come.