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SALEM, Oregon (September 24, 2025) - Oregon lawmakers have recently passed a comprehensive family law reform bill that will have significant implications for custody arrangements and child support payments in the state. The bill, which has been in the works for several years, aims to update and modernize Oregon's family law statutes to better reflect the diverse needs of families in today's society.One of the key provisions of the bill is a new standard for determining child custody arrangements in Oregon. Under the previous law, the primary consideration in custody disputes was the best interests of the child. However, the reform bill now includes a presumption of shared custody, meaning that both parents will have equal rights and responsibilities when it comes to decision-making and parenting time. This change is aimed at promoting greater stability and consistency for children of divorced or separated parents.In addition to changes in custody arrangements, the reform bill also includes new guidelines for determining child support payments. Previously, child support amounts were calculated based on the income of the non-custodial parent. However, the new law now takes into account the income of both parents, as well as the child's financial needs and standard of living. This more nuanced approach is expected to result in fairer and more equitable child support arrangements for families across Oregon.The reform bill has been met with mixed reactions from family law experts and advocacy groups. Supporters of the legislation argue that it will promote greater cooperation between parents and ensure that children have access to both of their parents. However, critics have raised concerns about the potential for abuse and manipulation of the shared custody presumption, as well as the potential financial burden on low-income parents.Despite the controversy surrounding the bill, Governor Kate Brown has expressed her support for the reform efforts, stating that the changes are long overdue and will make a positive impact on Oregon families. The new family law provisions are set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, giving families and legal professionals time to adjust to the new guidelines and procedures.Overall, the passage of this family law reform bill marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to modernize Oregon's legal system and create a more equitable and supportive environment for families going through divorce or separation. Time will tell whether these changes will achieve their intended goals and improve outcomes for children and parents throughout the state.