On June 3rd, 2026, a significant milestone was achieved in Texas family law as the Family Law Reform Bill was passed by the state legislature. The bill, which has been in the works for several years, includes provisions that greatly impact child custody arrangements in divorce cases.One of the key changes brought about by the bill is the emphasis on shared parenting. Under the new law, judges will be required to start with the presumption that joint custody is in the best interest of the child, unless there is evidence to the contrary. This shift in perspective aims to ensure that both parents have an equal opportunity to be involved in their child's life post-divorce.Additionally, the bill includes provisions for mandatory co-parenting classes for divorcing parents, designed to provide them with the tools and resources needed to navigate the complexities of co-parenting effectively. These classes will cover topics such as communication strategies, conflict resolution, and child development.Another significant change brought about by the Family Law Reform Bill is the recognition of the importance of mental health in family law proceedings. The bill mandates that judges take into consideration the mental health of both parents when determining custody arrangements, with the goal of promoting the well-being of the child.Overall, the passage of the Family Law Reform Bill represents a major step forward in modernizing Texas family law and ensuring that the best interests of children are prioritized in divorce cases. The new provisions regarding shared parenting, co-parenting classes, and mental health considerations are expected to have a positive impact on the lives of families across the state.