Requests the Department of Children and Family Services to study penalties for failure to pay child support.
Impact
The bill could significantly change how courts handle cases of child support non-payment in Louisiana. Currently, individuals found in contempt are subject to imprisonment or fines; however, this resolution suggests a shift towards community service as a possible alternative, which could alleviate overcrowded jails and provide a constructive remedy. If enacted, the study by the DCFS may lead to recommendations that could establish a framework for judges to impose community service as a penal alternative.
Summary
Senate Resolution 165, sponsored by Senator Mills, urges the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to study the potential for allowing defendants found in contempt of court due to unpaid child support to perform community service in place of jail time. Specifically, this community service would focus on litter abatement and collection, addressing two issues: punishment for non-payment of child support and the need for cleaner public spaces. The resolution asks the DCFS to submit a report with findings and recommendations by February 1, 2017.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SR165 is generally supportive, with recognition of the dual benefit of addressing child support enforcement and litter issues in the state. Supporters advocate for innovative approaches to managing non-compliance with child support orders, emphasizing rehabilitation over punitive measures. The discussion may also highlight the importance of community service in fostering responsibility among non-payers and contributing positively to public spaces.
Contention
Notable points of contention could arise regarding the appropriateness of community service as a substitute for prison time, which could be seen as undermining the seriousness of child support obligations. Critics might argue that community service could lead to leniency for those failing to meet their financial responsibilities, potentially impacting the children who rely on those support payments. Additionally, considerations surrounding the feasibility and efficacy of managing such community services could present logistical challenges for the DCFS and the court system.
Commends the family court for the parish of East Baton Rouge for successfully utilizing litter abatement in lieu of imprisonment in certain circumstances of unpaid child support and requests courts across the state to exercise this option when appropriate.
Requests the Department of Public Safety and Corrections to develop a work release program for persons convicted of offenses involving the failure to pay child support
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.