Missouri House Bill HB60

Missouri 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/23
• Refer: 5/12/23

Caption

Provides that the court shall not order a parent to pay child support to the other parent for reasonable or necessary expenses of the child if the parents are awarded equal time with the child

Impact

If enacted, HB60 could significantly transform the financial dynamics in custody cases. Parents sharing equal custody would benefit from not having one parent financially burdened by support payments, thereby encouraging cooperative parenting. However, this change could lead to concerns regarding the fair distribution of child-related expenses, as it may result in disparities in the financial commitments of each parent towards the child's needs. The implications for how courts interpret 'reasonable' and 'necessary' expenses will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of the bill in practice.

Summary

House Bill 60 proposes to change the existing child support framework by stipulating that courts shall not order a parent to pay child support for reasonable or necessary expenses of a child if both parents are granted equal time with the child. This bill aims to create a more equitable financial responsibility structure between parents who share custody, reflecting the growing emphasis on joint parenting arrangements within family law. By eliminating child support obligations in cases of equal time, the bill seeks to reduce conflicts between parents and promote a more collaborative approach to co-parenting.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB60 appears mixed. Supporters, including advocates for equal parenting, believe the bill fosters fairness and acknowledges the responsibilities of both parents equally when they share custody. They argue it reflects a shift towards modern family structures and recognizes the importance of both parents in a child's life. Conversely, opponents may express concerns over potential loopholes that could arise from the bill, leading to inequities in shared parenting arrangements and challenges in keeping children’s needs adequately met during custody arrangements.

Contention

Notable points of contention include how 'reasonable or necessary expenses' are defined and the potential impact of this bill on child welfare. Critics worry that without clear guidelines, parents may prioritize their financial situations over their child's needs, resulting in missed opportunities for support that could enhance the child's quality of life. Additionally, the bill may provoke debates on the broader implications for parental rights versus child welfare, reflecting a deeper societal discussion regarding the balance of financial responsibilities in shared custody scenarios.