GiaQuinta bill to fill gap in child support law on its way to Governor

Legislation authored by House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) that would fill a gap in Indiana’s child support law is on its way to Gov. Eric Holcomb to be signed into law.

Representatives today passed House Bill 1520, which would make sure that child support continues for children who have turned 19 years of age and are still attending high school.

“Current law ends support obligations when the child reaches 19 years of age,” GiaQuinta said. “The problem is that some children turn 19  while they’re still in high school. These kids are being forced to choose between getting a job to support themselves or finishing high school. They shouldn’t have to make such difficult choices, and my legislation fixes this completely unintended consequence.”

The bill would require a parent or guardian to file notice with the court that a child will be in high school after his or her 19th birthday. The court then would be able to ensure that the support obligation continues from age 19 until the child graduates.

“The best part of this bill is that it would allow high school students to focus on their school work and other things that a high school student should be focused on,  rather than worrying about financial obligations,” GiaQuinta said.

HB 1520 was co-authored by State Reps. Lisa Beck (D-Lakes of the Four Seasons), Jerry Torr (R-Carmel), and Wendy McNamara (R-Evansville). The bill passed out of the Senate unanimously and the House 89-1.