The bill introduces a new section, 598.21H, which allows for the suspension of child support and medical support orders under specific circumstances related to custody changes in juvenile court. The court can issue an ex parte order to suspend support if a dispositional or permanency order places custody of a child with the person obligated to pay support, and the obligated person files a request for suspension. The order will take effect on the due date of the next support payment, and any objections to the suspension must be filed within 21 days, with a hearing scheduled within 15 days of the objection. The suspension will terminate automatically 60 days after the juvenile court proceeding concludes unless otherwise ordered.

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. This notice will facilitate the request for suspension of support under the new section. The notice must include the child's initials and year of birth, details of the custody transfer, and inform parties of their right to request a suspension of support. The bill also mandates that any court costs or filing fees for applications related to the suspension of support be waived, and standard forms for these applications will be provided by the supreme court.

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