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On September 14, 2025, the Oregon State Legislature introduced a groundbreaking bill aimed at strengthening protections for children involved in divorce and custody cases. The proposed legislation, known as the Child Custody and Protection Act, seeks to prioritize the best interests of the child in all family law proceedings.One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a presumption of shared custody, which aims to ensure that both parents have equal access to their children following a divorce or separation. This provision is based on the belief that children benefit from having meaningful relationships with both parents, and that shared custody arrangements can help minimize the negative impact of divorce on children.Additionally, the Child Custody and Protection Act includes provisions aimed at addressing issues of domestic violence and abuse in custody cases. Under the proposed legislation, courts will be required to consider evidence of domestic violence or abuse when making custody determinations, with the safety and well-being of the child being the top priority.In a statement, State Senator Emily Miller, the lead sponsor of the bill, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the needs of children in family law proceedings. "Far too often, children are caught in the middle of bitter custody battles that focus more on the interests of the parents than on the well-being of the child," said Senator Miller. "This legislation aims to shift the focus back where it belongs – on protecting and supporting our children."The proposed legislation has already garnered significant support from child advocacy groups, legal experts, and family law practitioners. Many see it as a long-overdue step towards ensuring that children are not only heard in family law proceedings, but that their best interests are truly prioritized.If passed, the Child Custody and Protection Act would mark a significant milestone in Oregon family law, setting a new standard for child custody protections and ensuring that children's voices are always heard in matters that affect their lives. The bill is expected to undergo further review and debate in the coming weeks before potentially being signed into law.