More Family Law news More news in Oregon Find Family Law lawyers in Oregon
In a landmark decision, the Oregon State Legislature has passed a series of new family law reforms aimed at strengthening protections for children in the state. The legislation, which was signed into law by Governor Kate Brown on February 3, 2026, represents a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of Oregon's youngest residents.Among the key provisions of the new legislation are increased penalties for individuals who violate court orders related to child custody and visitation. Under the new law, parents who fail to comply with court-ordered custody arrangements could face more severe consequences, including fines, probation, and even jail time. Lawmakers hope that these stricter penalties will serve as a deterrent to parents who may otherwise seek to withhold visitation rights from their co-parents.Additionally, the new legislation includes measures to prevent the use of parental alienation as a tactic in custody disputes. Parental alienation, which occurs when one parent deliberately undermines the child's relationship with the other parent, can have serious and long-lasting effects on a child's emotional well-being. The new law empowers family court judges to intervene in cases where parental alienation is suspected, with the goal of protecting the child's best interests and preserving their relationship with both parents.The reforms also address the issue of domestic violence within families, with a focus on providing support and resources for survivors and their children. The legislation includes provisions for increased funding for domestic violence shelters and counseling services, as well as enhanced training for family court professionals to better recognize and respond to cases of domestic abuse.In a statement following the signing of the new legislation, Governor Brown emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights and welfare of children in Oregon. "Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, free from the threat of harm or instability," she said. "These new laws represent a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to protecting Oregon's children and families."The passage of this comprehensive family law reform package has been hailed as a victory for children's rights advocates and domestic violence prevention organizations across the state. With these new protections in place, Oregon is poised to set a higher standard for family law and child welfare nationwide.