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On March 14, 2026, Washington state lawmakers announced the introduction of new family law legislation aimed at providing greater support for children and families across the state. The new laws, which were approved by the state legislature and signed into law by Governor Johnson, represent a major step towards improving the lives of families facing challenges related to divorce, custody, and child support.One of the key provisions of the new legislation is the establishment of a presumption of equal parenting time in child custody cases. Under this new law, judges will be required to start from the assumption that children benefit from having equal time with both parents, unless there is evidence to suggest that this arrangement would not be in the child's best interests. This change aims to promote greater parental involvement and cooperation in co-parenting arrangements, while also providing children with the opportunity to maintain strong relationships with both parents.In addition to the equal parenting time provision, the new legislation also includes measures to streamline and improve the child support system in Washington state. These changes include updates to the state's child support guidelines to reflect current economic conditions and ensure that support payments are fair and equitable. The legislation also includes provisions to make it easier for parents to modify child support orders when their financial circumstances change, providing greater flexibility and support for families.Furthermore, the new laws also include provisions to strengthen protections for victims of domestic violence in family law cases. These measures include enhanced training for judges and court personnel on recognizing and responding to domestic violence, as well as improved resources and support for victims seeking legal assistance in family law matters.Overall, the introduction of this new family law legislation represents a significant step forward in improving the family court system in Washington state and providing greater support for children and families facing difficult circumstances. By prioritizing the best interests of children and promoting cooperation between parents, these laws aim to create a more equitable and supportive environment for families across the state.