An Act Concerning Child Support And Enforcement.
The implementation of HB 6369 would amend existing statutes related to child support calculations, requiring that each order considers reasonable health care coverage options. This change signifies a commitment to maintaining the welfare of children involved in custody disputes and divorces, ensuring that no child is left without adequate health care provisions. Additionally, the law aims to streamline enforcement mechanisms, such as the use of National Medical Support Notices for parents required to provide health insurance through employment, thereby enabling more consistent compliance among non-custodial parents.
House Bill 6369, titled 'An Act Concerning Child Support and Enforcement', focuses on establishing clearer provisions for child support orders, specifically regarding health care coverage for children. The bill requires that any support order in a IV-D support case includes a provision for health care coverage, which can be provided through insurance plans or cash medical support. The inclusion of such provisions aims to ensure that children's health care needs are adequately addressed and covered, taking into account the cost burdens on parents who are required to provide insurance or financial support for medical expenses.
The general sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be supportive among child welfare advocates who argue that it will enhance children's access to necessary health care services. Proponents believe that by mandating explicit health care coverage in support orders, the bill would diminish future disputes over medical expenses that can arise between custodial and non-custodial parents. However, there are concerns from some critics who feel that the imposition of additional financial obligations may strain lower-income parents, particularly those who may find it challenging to maintain reasonable health care coverage.
A notable point of contention relates to the definitions of what constitutes 'reasonable' health care coverage. Critics argue that the bill could unintentionally disadvantage parents with limited financial resources by requiring them to shoulder costs that exceed their income capabilities, potentially leading to enforcement actions. Additionally, the ability for the Department of Social Services to request reimbursement from employers of non-compliant parents raises concerns about the potential for overreach and the implications for parental rights. Overall, the bill reflects a balancing act between ensuring children's needs are met while also considering the financial realities faced by parents.