Texas House Bill HB1846

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to suspension or denial of issuance or renewal of a license for failure to pay child support.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1846 could significantly affect individuals with unpaid child support, as it introduces mandatory payment thresholds for those who wish to have their licenses reinstated. A key change includes requiring obligors to make an immediate payment of at least $200 before a stay on license suspension can be considered. This adjustment aims to encourage compliance with child support orders by establishing financial incentives for payment, thereby potentially increasing the timely collection of child support across the state.

Summary

House Bill 1846 addresses the suspension or denial of licenses in cases where individuals fail to meet child support obligations. The bill amends provisions in the Family Code, particularly Sections 232.008 and 232.0135, to allow for stricter enforcement measures against obligors who are delinquent in their child support payments. According to the amended sections, a licensing authority can refuse to grant or renew licenses to individuals until they satisfy certain conditions related to their child support arrearages.

Contention

Notable points of contention around the bill include concerns that the requirements for reinstating licenses could disproportionately impact lower-income individuals who may struggle to make immediate payments. Some advocates argue that while the intent of the bill is to enforce child support obligations, it could unintentionally lead to a cycle of poverty for those who are already financially strained. Conversely, supporters emphasize the necessity of ensuring accountability among obligors and argue that licenses should not be issued or renewed for those who are failing to provide support for their children.