Rhode Island Senate Bill S0398

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

Divorce And Separation

Impact

This legislative change could significantly affect both custodial and non-custodial parents during divorce proceedings. By extending the requirement for non-custodial parents to provide financial support for children attending college, the bill seeks to ensure that young adults have the necessary financial backing to complete their education. The amendment also mandates that child support orders must include provisions for health insurance coverage for children, enhancing the welfare and health security of the children involved.

Summary

Bill S0398 amends provisions related to child support obligations within the context of divorce and separation in Rhode Island. The legislation aims to clarify and extend the child support responsibilities of non-custodial parents, specifically allowing for continued support for children attending college. The bill outlines that support can now extend until a child reaches the age of twenty-one if they are living with the custodial parent while enrolled in a two-year or four-year college program.

Contention

The bill has stirred debate among stakeholders. Advocates for children's welfare argue that extending support aligns with the reality of higher education costs and supports children's continuity in their educational pursuits. However, critics raise concerns regarding the financial burden this may place on non-custodial parents, particularly those who might be facing financial hardships. Furthermore, there are discussions about the implications of incarceration on child support obligations, which could lead to disparities in enforcement and compliance among different demographics.