Urges probation system records review prior to use of certain enforcement tools in child support cases.
Should the New Jersey Supreme Court act on this resolution, it could lead to changes in the child support enforcement process. By instituting a requirement for the Probation Division to conduct preliminary manual searches of internal records for existing obligor credits before utilizing enforcement measures, the resolution seeks to balance the enforcement process with fairness. This adds a layer of due diligence which may protect obligors from aggressive enforcement actions stemming from clerical errors or overlooked credits, thereby reshaping the enforcement landscape in New Jersey.
Assembly Resolution No. 68 (AR68) urges the New Jersey Supreme Court to implement procedures for reviewing probation system records prior to the use of certain enforcement tools in child support cases. The resolution highlights the complexities involved in processing child support payments through a centralized system, where errors can occur that may lead to credits not being recorded as timely payments, potentially impacting the obligor unfairly. This resolution is aimed at ensuring that these credits are properly assessed to avoid unnecessary enforcement actions against individuals who may not have actually failed to make payments.
Supporters of AR68 might argue that the bill brings necessary reform to an often rigid and automated system, allowing for a humane approach to enforcement. This consideration is crucial for those who might face enforcement actions despite having legitimate credits within the system that could negate any perceived overdue payments. However, there may also be concerns regarding the potential for delayed enforcement actions in cases of genuine non-payment, raising questions about whether an enhanced review process might allow for some cases to fall through the cracks.