Senate File 542 introduces a new section, 598.21H, which allows for the suspension of child support orders under specific circumstances related to custody changes in juvenile court. The bill stipulates that a court may issue an ex parte order to suspend child support if a dispositional or permanency order places custody of a child with the individual obligated to pay support, and if the obligated party files a request for suspension that includes necessary details about the juvenile court proceedings. The suspension order becomes effective on the due date of the next support payment and can be contested by any party within 21 days, with a hearing scheduled within 15 days of the objection.

Additionally, the bill amends sections 232.102 and 232.104 to require juvenile courts to file a notice of change of custody when custody is transferred to a person ordered to pay support, allowing that individual to request a suspension of support. The notice must include the child's initials and year of birth, as well as details about the custody transfer. If custody is returned to the previous support recipient, a similar notice must be filed to facilitate the termination of the support suspension. The bill also mandates that any court costs or filing fees associated with these applications be waived, and standard forms for these processes will be provided by the supreme court.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 232.102, 598.21H
Reprinted: 232.102, 598.21H
Enrolled: 232.102, 598.21H