Oklahoma House Bill HB2116

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Children; support; father; expenses; effective date.

Impact

One key feature of HB2116 is the requirement that a father determined through legal channels must bear the financial burden of not only child support but also various pregnancy-related expenses. This includes lost wages due to prescribed bed rest and unpaid parental leave, which strengthens the financial accountability of fathers. The proposed changes aim to reflect more equitable parental obligations and are poised to influence the interactions between parents and the courts regarding financial support for children.

Summary

House Bill 2116 addresses the financial responsibilities of parents for children born out of wedlock by amending 10 O.S. 2021, Section 83. The bill specifies that both the mother and legally recognized father are liable for the support and education of their child. It allows either parent, or other custodial parties, to seek enforcement of this obligation. The bill emphasizes fairness in parental responsibilities, making the father liable for specific expenses such as costs related to childbirth and medical expenses during pregnancy.

Contention

Topics of contention might arise due to the implications of establishing paternity, especially concerning financial liabilities that may extend for up to two years prior to the filing of an action. Critics of the bill may argue that imposing such broad financial obligations could place unfair burdens on fathers particularly if paternity is established long after the child’s birth. Additionally, concerns about the enforcement of these obligations and how they impact single parents might be a focal point in discussions surrounding the bill.