In a move to address the growing concerns surrounding child custody and support arrangements in the state, Kentucky lawmakers have introduced new legislation aimed at reforming the family law system. The proposed bill, entitled the Family Law Reform Act of 2026, seeks to update and modernize existing laws to better serve the needs of families and children in Kentucky.One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a new, standardized child custody and support guideline system. Under the current laws, judges have broad discretion in determining custody and support arrangements, often leading to inconsistent and unfair outcomes. The proposed legislation would create a set of clear guidelines that judges must follow when making decisions about custody and support, providing more consistency and predictability for families involved in these matters.In addition to the guidelines, the bill includes provisions aimed at promoting shared parenting and co-parenting arrangements. Research has shown that children benefit from having strong relationships with both parents, and the new legislation seeks to encourage cooperative arrangements that allow both parents to be involved in their children's lives. This includes provisions for joint custody, shared decision-making, and equal parenting time for both parents whenever possible.Furthermore, the bill addresses issues related to child support, including guidelines for determining support amounts based on the income of both parents and the needs of the child. The legislation also aims to streamline the process for modifying support orders when circumstances change, making it easier for families to adjust support arrangements as needed.Supporters of the bill argue that these proposed reforms will help ensure that the best interests of children are prioritized in family law decisions, while also promoting fairness and equality for all parties involved. However, critics have raised concerns about the potential impact of the legislation on low-income families and those with complex family dynamics.The Family Law Reform Act of 2026 is currently being reviewed by the Kentucky Senate and House of Representatives. If passed, the bill would represent a major overhaul of the state's family law system and could have far-reaching implications for families across Kentucky. Stay tuned for updates on this important legislation as it progresses through the legislative process.