The proposed bill amends Minnesota Statutes to eliminate automatic cost-of-living adjustments for maintenance and child support orders, specifically removing the requirement for such adjustments for orders issued prior to January 1, 2027. For orders issued on or after this date, the bill mandates that specific notices regarding payment obligations and penalties for noncompliance must be included. This change is intended to simplify the process and clarify the obligations of both parents concerning child support and maintenance. Additionally, conforming changes are made to various sections of the Minnesota Statutes to reflect the removal of these adjustments, streamlining enforcement and compliance measures.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new calculations for determining parental income for child support (PICS) and outlines the obligations of each parent in split custody cases. It details the process for calculating basic support, child care support, and medical support obligations, ensuring these amounts are included in court orders. The bill also specifies that if parents owe support to each other, the court will offset the obligations to determine the net amount owed. Importantly, it clarifies that unreimbursed and uninsured medical expenses are not included in the presumptive support amount and must be calculated separately. Overall, the bill aims to provide clarity and stability in child support obligations while eliminating the complexities associated with automatic cost-of-living adjustments.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 518A.75, 518.68, 518A.34, 518A.40, 518A.41
1st Engrossment: 518.68, 518A.34, 518A.75