North Dakota House Bill HB1308

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Refer: 1/11/23
• Report Pass: 2/13/23

Caption

Suspension of recreational licenses for delinquent child support payments; to provide for retroactive application; and to provide a contingent expiration date.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1308 would modify existing laws governing recreational licenses, expanding the grounds for suspension to include child support delinquency. This change signifies a broader state effort to prioritize child support enforcement and may affect various licensing bodies overseeing recreational activities. This bill could lead to a reduced number of recreational licenses issued or renewed for those who are behind on payments, thereby increasing the pressure on non-compliant individuals to meet their financial responsibilities.

Summary

House Bill 1308 aims to address the suspension of recreational licenses for individuals who are delinquent in their child support payments. The bill seeks to enforce a stricter consequence for those who fail to comply with child support obligations by allowing the retroactive suspension of recreational licenses. This proactive measure is aimed at ensuring accountability among parents with children who depend on financial support, making it clear that non-compliance with child support can lead to a loss of recreational privileges.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1308 appears mixed, with supporters advocating for stronger enforcement measures aimed at supporting children and families in need, while opponents may raise concerns regarding the fairness of penalizing individuals without considering their current circumstances. Supporters of the bill view it as a necessary step in addressing child support issues, while critics might argue that it adds another layer of consequences that could disproportionately affect those already in difficult financial situations.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 1308 focus on the balance between enforcing child support obligations and the potential hardship imposed on individuals facing financial challenges. Critics of the bill fear that the retroactive application of license suspensions could lead to unintended negative impacts on families relying on recreational activities for mental well-being, potentially exacerbating existing hardships rather than alleviating them.