The bill amends Section 15-5-16.2 of the General Laws concerning child support in divorce and separation proceedings. It establishes that the court shall order either or both parents to pay child support based on a formula and guidelines set by the family court. The court retains discretion to adjust the support amount if it finds the calculated order inequitable, considering various factors such as the financial resources of both parents and the child's needs.

Significant changes include the deletion of the previous limitation on child support for high school students, which capped support at age 19, and the introduction of new provisions allowing for child support for children who have attained 18 years of age but are under 21, as well as for those up to 23 years old if they are enrolled in an educational program. The bill specifies that support may be ordered for children who are principally dependent on a parent and domiciled in that parent's home.

Additionally, the bill excludes educational costs beyond an undergraduate degree from support obligations. The bill also outlines the court's authority to appoint a guardian ad litem for minors in support proceedings and establishes procedures for modifying support orders. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the support framework for children and ensure that their needs are adequately met during and after parental separation.

Statutes affected:
5261: 15-5-16.2