Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2583

Filed
2/21/23  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the application of child support guidelines to net resources in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2583 would amend current child support guidelines by adjusting the cap on net resources from $9,200 to a revised figure that better reflects actual needs. This change is intended to promote fairness in financial obligations between custodial and non-custodial parents. Advocates believe that by ensuring parents contribute to childcare expenses commensurate with their income, the bill will help alleviate the financial burdens often placed on primary caregivers. The bill’s revision of net resource calculations aims to provide a clearer, more precise framework for the courts when determining child support obligations.

Summary

House Bill 2583 is aimed at reforming the application of child support guidelines specifically relating to net resources in family law suits. The primary objective of this bill is to ensure the expenses associated with childcare are fairly allocated between parents, thus enabling a more equitable distribution based on each parent's unique financial circumstances. This legislative effort comes in light of existing laws that cap the amount of income considered for child support calculations, potentially leading to inequitable outcomes depending on the actual childcare costs incurred by each parent.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2583 appears to be mixed, with support from family law advocates who argue that it promotes just and equitable standards in child support decisions. The Texas Family Law Foundation has openly endorsed the bill, highlighting its potential to correct existing disparities in financial responsibilities for childcare. However, some opposition has emerged, particularly from individuals concerned about potentially increasing child support obligations significantly without adequate evidence of need being demonstrated in court. This dichotomy in sentiment underscores a key tension within the bill's implications for both parents involved in child support agreements.

Contention

A notable point of contention arises from the differing perspectives on whether increasing the cap for child support allocations could lead to unjust financial burdens on non-custodial parents. Critics of HB 2583 argue that such changes could impose significant increases in child support payments without the necessary evidentiary requirements to demonstrate the actual need for such increases. This debate highlights the challenges of balancing the financial responsibilities of both parents while ensuring that the needs of the child are adequately met. Ultimately, the passage of HB 2583 could redefine the landscape of child support obligations in Texas, with profound implications for family law.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

  • Chapter 154. Child Support
    • Section: 125
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 125
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.