On January 13, 2025, the Illinois Senate introduced SB0027, a legislative bill aimed at reforming child support calculations in cases of shared and split physical care. The bill seeks to address the complexities of child support obligations when parents share custody, ensuring a fairer distribution of financial responsibilities based on each parent's income and the time spent with the child.

Key provisions of SB0027 include a new formula for calculating child support obligations when parents share physical care, defined as each parent having the child for 146 or more overnights per year. In such cases, the basic child support obligation will be multiplied by 1.5, and the court will determine each parent's share based on their percentage of combined net income. This approach aims to create a more equitable system that reflects the actual care provided by each parent.

Additionally, the bill introduces a framework for split physical care situations, where each parent has physical custody of at least one child. It outlines a two-step calculation process to determine the support owed between parents, ensuring that the financial obligations are balanced according to the number of children each parent cares for.

The introduction of SB0027 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill will alleviate financial strain on parents who share custody and promote a more collaborative parenting environment. However, some critics express concerns about the potential for increased complexity in child support calculations and the administrative burden it may place on the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, which is tasked with creating the necessary worksheets for these calculations.

The implications of SB0027 extend beyond individual families, potentially impacting the broader social landscape by encouraging shared parenting arrangements and reducing conflicts over financial responsibilities. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its outcomes will be closely monitored by stakeholders invested in family law and child welfare.

In conclusion, SB0027 represents a significant shift in how child support is calculated in Illinois, aiming to create a more equitable system for families navigating shared and split custody arrangements. The bill's future will depend on ongoing discussions and potential amendments as it moves through the legislative process.