In a major step towards improving family law in Oklahoma, Governor Jane Williams signed a set of new bills into law on Monday, aimed at better protecting children and families in the state. The changes, which come into effect immediately, address several key issues that have long been a source of concern for advocates and lawmakers alike.One of the most significant changes is the implementation of mandatory co-parenting classes for divorcing parents. Under the new law, all parents seeking a divorce with children under the age of 18 will be required to attend a co-parenting course designed to help them navigate the challenges of co-parenting effectively. The goal is to reduce conflict and create a more stable and supportive environment for children during a difficult time.Additionally, the new laws introduce stricter guidelines for child support payments, including a provision that requires both parents to submit income information annually to ensure that child support payments accurately reflect each parent's financial situation. This measure is intended to prevent situations where one parent is unfairly burdened with an excessive financial responsibility.Another key change is the establishment of a mediation program for resolving custody disputes outside of the courtroom. The program will provide families with the opportunity to work with trained mediators to reach mutually acceptable agreements on parenting plans and custody arrangements, with the goal of minimizing the emotional and financial toll of prolonged custody battles.Governor Williams praised the new laws as an important step towards creating a more equitable and child-centered family law system in Oklahoma. "These changes are long overdue and represent a significant improvement in how we support and protect families in our state," she stated.Advocates for children and families have also lauded the new laws, emphasizing the positive impact they will have on children's well-being and overall family stability. "These changes are a win for Oklahoma families," said Sarah Thompson, executive director of the Oklahoma Coalition for Child Welfare. "By prioritizing the needs of children and promoting collaborative co-parenting, we are taking a crucial step towards building healthier and happier families in our state."Overall, the new family law changes in Oklahoma represent a significant step forward in prioritizing the well-being of children and families in the state. With these new laws in place, Oklahoma is poised to provide better support and protection for families facing difficult transitions and challenges.