Child support: enforcement.
The bill has notable implications on state laws related to child support, particularly in how local agencies enforce and collect these payments. One of the significant changes is that local agencies will no longer be permitted to collect interest that accrues on child support assigned after January 1, 2022. This amendment is intended to reduce the financial burden on non-custodial parents who may already be struggling to meet their obligations. In effect, this statutory change might lead to fewer penalties and help alleviate accumulated debt related to child support.
Assembly Bill 1092, introduced by Assembly Member Jones-Sawyer, aims to amend existing law concerning child support enforcement in California. The bill transitions the requirement for disclosing eligibility for benefits under the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program, changing it from a requirement of intentions to one of current status. Furthermore, it mandates that the Department of Child Support Services and local agencies take a more active role in the collection and enforcement of child support obligations, specifically modifying interest accrual rates on payments assigned as child support.
The sentiment surrounding AB 1092 appears to be mixed, with supporters highlighting its potential benefits in fostering more manageable financial responsibilities for non-custodial parents and ultimately benefiting the children. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the implications for agencies that depend on these accrued interests, which could affect the funding and effectiveness of child support programs. The discussions around this bill hint at a broader debate on balancing the enforcement and financial implications of child support laws.
Notable points of contention include the implications of ceasing interest collection on assigned child support, which could affect the overall efficacy of child support laws administered by local agencies. Critics may argue that the bill could unintentionally allow non-custodial parents to evade their financial responsibilities without the incentive of accruing interest. The need for additional regulations from the department by July 1, 2022, to implement some of the bill's provisions also raises questions about regulatory oversight and timing in terms of state enforcement.