An act to amend Section Sections 17520 and 17520.5 of the Family Code, relating to child support.
Impact
This bill will affect the protocol used by the Department of Child Support Services and local child support agencies. By prohibiting the inclusion of support obligors with an annual household income at or below 70% of the median income in databases impacting license issuances, the bill aims to reduce the number of license suspensions for those who may be struggling financially. The change is anticipated to support individuals in maintaining their ability to drive and operate in their professional capacity, which is especially vital for those who rely on driving for their employment.
Summary
Assembly Bill 2195, introduced by Assembly Member Celeste Rodriguez, proposes amendments to Section 17520.5 of the California Family Code, aimed at reforming the regulations surrounding child support and license suspensions. The bill specifically addresses the situation where individuals who are identified as support obligors and fall below a certain income level are at risk of having their licenses suspended or withheld. By expanding existing legislation, AB 2195 seeks to provide additional protections for low-income support obligors by establishing a threshold based on the median income for their respective counties.
Contention
While supporters of AB 2195 argue that the bill addresses essential fairness in child support enforcement, detractors may raise concerns regarding its implications for the effectiveness of child support collection efforts. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2025, with certain provisions becoming applicable as of January 1, 2027, indicating a gradual implementation. This staged approach may also spark discussions on the balance between ensuring responsible child support enforcement and protecting the rights and livelihoods of low-income individuals.
AN ACT to amend and reenact subsection 3 of section 14-09-08.1, section 14-09-08.2, subsection 2 of section 14-09-08.11, section 14-09-08.21, subsection 2 of section 14-09-09.32, subsection 16 of section 50-09-02, and section 50-09-36 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to establishment and enforcement of child support; and to repeal section 50-09-32 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to enforcement of child support.