The bill H. 3009 seeks to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws to improve the enforcement of alimony obligations by empowering the Department of Social Services' Division of Child Support Enforcement. It introduces a new section, 20-3-165, which grants the Department jurisdiction to enforce alimony obligations upon referral from the family court. The bill also includes provisions for retroactive application, allowing past cases to be addressed under the new enforcement capabilities. Additionally, it makes conforming amendments to existing laws related to child support and alimony, clarifying definitions and processes, and streamlining the legal framework for these obligations.

Moreover, the bill establishes that any unpaid child support or alimony of $1,000 or more creates a lien in favor of the obligee, which can affect both tangible and intangible property of the obligor. It outlines the notification process for obligors regarding unpaid obligations and the procedures for filing liens. The bill mandates that the Department of Social Services receive copies of marriage and death certificates at no charge to facilitate enforcement actions. It also ensures that fees set by the relevant department do not exceed the actual cost of services and provides for the free verification of records for Veterans Administration claims. Lastly, the bill includes a severability clause and states that it will take effect upon the Governor's approval, with retroactive application for alimony obligations accrued within the last ten years.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 20-3-165, 20-3-130, 63-17-710, 20-1-350
Latest Version: 20-3-165, 20-3-130, 63-17-710, 20-1-350
12/06/2024: 20-3-165, 20-3-130, 63-17-710, 20-1-350