Arkansas House Bill HB1699

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/23
• Refer: 3/27/23
• Failed: 5/1/23

Caption

To Streamline Modification Of Child Support When A Payor Parent Is Released From Incarceration; And To Facilitate A Recently Incarcerated Parent's Prompt Payment Toward The Support Of His Or Her Minor Child.

Impact

The act will amend existing statutes regarding the treatment of incarceration in child support cases, ensuring that a parent's incarceration is not perceived as voluntary unemployment. This modification allows for a more equitable assessment of child support post-release, recognizing that a parent's financial capabilities may change upon their reintegration into society. Further, the bill mandates the sharing of pertinent information about released inmates with child support enforcement authorities to ensure they can meet their obligations promptly and effectively.

Summary

House Bill 1699 aims to streamline the process of modifying child support obligations for parents who have recently been released from incarceration. The bill emphasizes the importance of accurately reflecting the income of a parent upon their release, which can significantly affect their ability to meet child support requirements. It also establishes a framework for better communication between various state agencies, including the Division of Correction and the Office of Child Support Enforcement, to facilitate a smooth transition for recently incarcerated parents back into fulfilling their financial responsibilities towards their children.

Contention

Notably, there is potential contention regarding the methods of information sharing mandated by the bill. Opponents may argue about privacy concerns and the implications of extensive information gathering from various government entities. Additionally, there might be debates surrounding the fairness of automatically modifying child support based solely on the release from incarceration, particularly if extenuating circumstances exist. The bill intends to create a smoother pathway for formerly incarcerated parents, but it raises questions regarding the balance between enforced responsibility and individual circumstances.