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In a landmark decision, North Carolina Governor Sarah Johnson signed into law a series of new family law reforms aimed at improving the protection of children and families in the state. The reforms, which were proposed by a bipartisan committee of lawmakers and child welfare advocates, aim to address some long-standing issues in the state's family court system.One of the key changes introduced by the new reforms is the establishment of a dedicated family court system in North Carolina. This system will be staffed by judges and court personnel with specialized training in family law matters, allowing for more efficient and effective resolution of disputes involving custody, visitation, and child support.Additionally, the reforms include new protections for victims of domestic violence in family court proceedings. Under the new laws, judges will be required to consider evidence of domestic violence when making decisions about custody and visitation arrangements, and will be empowered to issue protective orders to ensure the safety of victims and their children.The reforms also aim to improve the enforcement of child support orders in North Carolina. State agencies will be given more tools to track down non-custodial parents who fail to pay child support, and new penalties will be imposed on those who shirk their financial responsibilities.Governor Johnson praised the new reforms as a significant step forward in ensuring the well-being of children and families in North Carolina. "These reforms will help to strengthen our family court system and ensure that the best interests of children are always a top priority," she said in a statement.The reforms have been hailed by child welfare advocates and legal experts as a positive development for North Carolina's family law system. "These changes will help to ensure that children and families receive the protection and support they need during difficult times," said one advocate.Overall, the new family law reforms in North Carolina are seen as a positive step towards creating a more just and equitable family court system that prioritizes the well-being of children and families above all else. The reforms will go into effect on January 1, 2027, and are expected to have a significant impact on family law proceedings in the state for years to come.