Maryland House Bill HB136

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/23
• Refer: 1/13/23

Caption

Child Support Enforcement - Occupational and Recreational Licenses - Taxpayer Identification Number

Impact

If enacted, HB 136 will significantly impact the Family Law statutes in Maryland by integrating taxpayer identification numbers into the licensing application process. This inclusion allows for a more robust mechanism of ensuring that individuals with outstanding child support obligations are identified and their licenses monitored. The enforcement agencies will be empowered to request information more effectively about those who are delinquent on child support payments, thus streamlining the enforcement process and ensuring that more individuals comply with their financial responsibilities toward their children.

Summary

House Bill 136 aims to revise the regulations surrounding child support enforcement in Maryland, specifically focusing on the issuance and management of occupational and recreational licenses. The bill proposes that licensing authorities must require applicants to disclose either their Social Security number or a taxpayer identification number if they lack a Social Security number. This change is designed to enhance the ability of the state to track and enforce child support obligations through various licensing authorities, including those overseeing labor, health, and transportation among others.

Contention

The bill has attracted various opinions from lawmakers. Proponents assert that enhancing the collection mechanisms for child support through licensing authorities is a fiscal necessity that will benefit families in need. However, there are concerns about privacy implications and the potential burden on individuals who may find the process challenging, especially those without the means to navigate bureaucratic paperwork. Critics worry that this could lead to further complications for applicants who are already marginalized within the system, potentially leading to license denials that could impact their livelihoods.