April 1, 2004
Thursday

The House of Representatives passed a bill Wednesday that will change child support laws in the state of Alaska. HB 514, sponsored by Representative Pete Kott (R-Eagle River), passed the House 34 to 4.

HB 514 increases the penalties for criminal nonsupport and aiding and abetting the nonpayment of child support from a Class A Misdemeanor to a Class C Felony. The bill also authorizes the court to order non-custodial parents to pay on approved payment plans, seek work, and apply for and submit their Permanent Fund Dividend application.

"Kids deserve to be supported by both parents," said Representative Kott. He went on to say, "I am most pleased that the bill as passed allows the Child Support Enforcement Division to create a program of state debt forgiveness, in which non-custodial parents who meet the program criteria and successfully participate can have a portion of their state debt reduced. I think it is important that we help those parents who are making an honest effort to fulfill their obligations."

HB 514 now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Source of News Release:

Alaska Republicans
Web Site

 

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