Since then the divorce rate in the state has plunged, The Wall Street Journal reports.
The purpose of the law was to give fathers an equal share of custody of the children in a system that has traditionally favored mothers.
An unintended but encouraging thing followed. Between 2016 and 2023, the divorce rate fell 25%, compared with a nationwide decline of 18%.
Dr. Alex McFarland of Exploring the Word on AFR says giving dads and equal shot at coparenting is the best thing for kids whose worlds have been torn apart because their families have shattered.
“Sadly, divorce exists. That's unfortunate, and so often when there are children involved, they are the ones that suffer.”
Opponents of the law are concerned that it might keep abusive relationships intact. McFarland says the 50/50 standard is a starting point, and an abusive parent would be weeded out of the system.
“We would never advocate a spouse or children to stay in a situation of abuse,” he said.
Four other states – Arkansas, West Virginia, Florida and Missouri – have
passed their own versions of Kentucky's custody bill. The National Parents Organization says about 20 more are considering similar laws. McFarland says the laws are causing divorcing couples to start working on their marriages instead.
“Fifty/fifty might, as it's done in Kentucky, cause more people to think about staying,” McFarland said.
He says almost any marriage can be saved if the couple starts applying biblical principles to their vows.
“Whether it be the laws like Kentucky has adopted, or whether it be just commitment to press on through life crucibles, I hope more and more couples will work on their marriages and families will be preserved.”
