In a significant development for family law in South Dakota, a new reform bill aimed at strengthening protections for children and parents has passed both houses of the state legislature and is set to be signed into law by Governor Johnson.The bill, known as the Family Law Reform Act of 2026, addresses a variety of issues related to divorce, child custody, and parental rights. One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a rebuttable presumption of shared parenting, which encourages courts to award equal custody to both parents unless it is determined to be not in the best interests of the child.This shift towards shared parenting is a departure from the previous standard in South Dakota, which often awarded primary custody to one parent, typically the mother. Proponents of the bill argue that shared parenting is beneficial for children, as it allows them to maintain strong relationships with both parents and minimizes the disruption caused by divorce.In addition to the shared parenting provision, the bill also includes measures to protect victims of domestic violence and ensure that parents have equal access to information about their children's education and healthcare. It also encourages courts to consider the input of children in custody decisions, taking into account their preferences and wishes.The passage of the Family Law Reform Act of 2026 represents a significant victory for advocates of family law reform in South Dakota. State Senator Lisa Thompson, who sponsored the bill, praised its passage as a step towards a more child-focused and equitable family law system.Governor Johnson is expected to sign the bill into law in the coming days, with the new provisions set to take effect later this year. The reform is anticipated to have a lasting impact on family law in South Dakota, promoting cooperation between parents and prioritizing the best interests of children in custody and divorce proceedings.