The bill amends Chapter 18 of the General Laws by replacing section 18A to enhance the enforcement of child support obligations for recipients of public assistance under Title IV-A of the Social Security Act. It mandates that the department impose sanctions on individuals who fail to cooperate with the IV-D agency in establishing paternity or enforcing child support orders without good cause. The bill outlines specific criteria for determining good cause, including circumstances such as the child being conceived from incest or rape, pending adoption proceedings, and potential risks to the child or their relatives. Additionally, it establishes that individuals who knowingly provide false information to the IV-D agency may face prosecution for perjury.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions in Chapter 118 and Chapter 119A to allow families receiving public assistance to retain a portion of child support payments. Specifically, starting July 1, 2027, the first $100 per month for one child and the first $200 per month for two or more children will be paid directly to the family and disregarded when calculating their countable income. This change aims to provide financial relief to families while ensuring that child support payments are effectively managed and enforced.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 118-2, 119A-2