Clay County reports challenges in child support collections and plans for credit card payments

The Clay County Board of Commissioners meeting on April 15, 2025, highlighted significant challenges and developments in the county's child support program. A key focus was on the difficulties faced in current collections, which have remained stagnant at around 72-73% for several years. Officials noted that the interstate caseload in Clay County contributes to these challenges, as enforcement of orders from other states can be complicated and often unenforceable.

The meeting also addressed recent changes in the administration of child support services, transitioning from the Department of Human Services (DHS) to the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). This shift has resulted in alterations to statutory requirements, impacting operations at both the state and county levels.

In an effort to modernize the program, officials announced plans to accept credit card payments for child support, a move expected to enhance compliance and ease for families. Additionally, the county is shifting towards a more thoughtful approach in enforcement, moving away from strict automation to better engage with individuals in the program.

The meeting also covered staffing changes within the collections unit, including a recent retirement that has prompted the need to fill the position. Despite these changes, the fraud unit has seen success, completing a record number of investigations in 2024. As a result of their performance, the state has increased Clay County's grant funding from $125,000 to $189,000 for the upcoming fiscal year.

Overall, the discussions underscored the county's commitment to improving child support services while navigating the complexities of interstate cases and adapting to new administrative structures.