In a continuous effort to address the changing landscape of modern families, Oregon's family law has once again evolved with the passing of new legislation in the state. On June 8, 2026, Governor Kate Brown signed into law several bills aimed at improving the legal rights and protections of families in Oregon.One of the most significant changes introduced by the new legislation is the expansion of parental leave rights. Under the new law, both parents will now have equal access to 12 weeks of paid parental leave following the birth or adoption of a child. This marks a significant shift from previous laws which often favored one parent over the other.Another key aspect of the new legislation is the introduction of mandatory mediation in all divorce cases involving children. The goal of this requirement is to ensure that parents have the opportunity to reach agreements on custody and visitation arrangements outside of court, reducing the emotional and financial toll of lengthy legal battles.Furthermore, the new legislation also includes provisions for enforcing child support payments, making it easier for custodial parents to receive the financial support they are entitled to. In cases where a non-custodial parent fails to make payments, the state will now have the authority to garnish wages or take other enforcement actions to ensure that children are adequately provided for.Additionally, the new laws also address the issue of domestic violence within families. Under the new legislation, protective orders can now be extended to cover pets, ensuring that all members of the family are kept safe from abuse.Overall, the changes to Oregon's family law reflect a commitment to ensuring the rights and well-being of all families in the state. By addressing issues such as parental leave, child support, and domestic violence, the new legislation aims to create a more equitable and supportive legal framework for families in Oregon.