Kentucky Attorney General's Office revises child support and paternity acknowledgment policies

On February 18, 2025, the Kentucky State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 244, a significant legislative proposal aimed at reforming child support obligations in the state. The bill seeks to establish clearer guidelines for determining child support based on voluntary acknowledgments of paternity and to enhance the efficiency of the child support enforcement process.

The primary provisions of Senate Bill 244 include a structured approach to calculating child support obligations, which will be based on the Kentucky child support guidelines outlined in KRS 403.212 and KRS 403.2122. The bill mandates that the monthly child support obligation will reflect both parents' income and will include a proportionate share of childcare costs incurred due to employment, job searches, or educational pursuits. Notably, the Office of the Attorney General is empowered to recognize voluntary acknowledgments of paternity as a basis for seeking support orders, regardless of the alleged father's consent.

A key aspect of the bill is its provision for periodic reviews of child support obligations. The Office of the Attorney General is tasked with notifying parents every three years about their right to request a review of their child support obligations. This review process aims to ensure that support amounts remain fair and reflective of current financial circumstances.

Debate surrounding Senate Bill 244 has highlighted concerns regarding its potential impact on families and the administrative burden it may place on the Office of the Attorney General. Some legislators have expressed apprehension about the implications of automated methods for reviewing and adjusting child support orders, fearing that it may overlook individual circumstances. However, proponents argue that these measures will streamline the process and ensure that child support obligations are regularly updated to reflect changes in income.

The economic implications of the bill are significant, as it aims to provide a more equitable distribution of child support responsibilities, potentially alleviating financial strain on custodial parents. Socially, the bill addresses the need for clarity and fairness in child support arrangements, which can have lasting effects on children's well-being.

As Senate Bill 244 progresses through the legislative process, its outcomes could reshape child support enforcement in Kentucky, making it a pivotal piece of legislation for families across the state. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential amendments as lawmakers consider the feedback from various stakeholders.