Mississippi Senate Bill SB2118

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Child support; allow restricted driver's license for work and worship.

Impact

The enactment of SB2118 will have significant implications on state laws concerning child support compliance. It provides a mechanism for individuals who are at risk of losing their driving privileges due to child support arrears to obtain a temporary license. This change aims to prevent the additional hardships that full suspension might impose, particularly on those who need to commute for employment or family obligations. By allowing limited driving privileges, the legislation seeks to assist parents in fulfilling their support responsibilities without completely disrupting their ability to work.

Summary

Senate Bill 2118 aims to amend the Mississippi Code to address the issuance of temporary driver's licenses for individuals whose general driver's licenses have been suspended due to failure to pay child support. The bill specifically modifies Section 93-11-153 to introduce a clear definition for 'temporary driver's license' and amends Section 93-11-157 to grant the Mississippi Department of Public Safety the authority to issue these licenses. This initiative emphasizes the need for individuals affected by suspension to maintain limited driving privileges related to essential activities such as work and attending religious services while they address their child support obligations.

Contention

While supporters of the bill argue that it helps parents remain employed and connected to essential services, there may be contention surrounding the effectiveness of such measures in enforcing child support compliance. Critics could contend that allowing temporary licenses does not address the underlying issues of non-payment and could potentially undermine child support enforcement efforts. Additionally, concerns may arise about potential loopholes or misunderstandings regarding the conditions under which these temporary licenses may be utilized, thus complicating the regulatory landscape surrounding child support obligations.