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HD 2137

An Act to enforce support orders for adult children in need of support

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kate Donaghue and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill extending child support enforcement to financially needy adult children, establishing parental obligations and court-based collection mechanisms for eligible cases.

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Bill Summary · HD 2137

Legislative bill overview

HD 2137 would extend Massachusetts's child support enforcement mechanisms to cover adult children who meet specific criteria for financial need. The bill establishes legal obligations for parents to provide financial support to adult children under defined circumstances, and creates enforcement procedures similar to those used for minor children's support orders.

Why is this important

Currently, Massachusetts child support law terminates when children reach the age of majority, leaving young adults without legal recourse even if they face severe financial hardship or disability. This bill could provide financial security for vulnerable adult children, particularly those with disabilities or pursuing higher education, while potentially increasing financial obligations on parents already paying child support.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of parental obligation: Defining what constitutes "need" and at what age parental financial responsibility should end remains philosophically contentious—some argue parents should support children through college/young adulthood, while others believe legal obligations should cease at age 18.
  • Enforceability and administrative burden: Creating new enforcement mechanisms requires court resources and adds compliance costs; questions exist about how to fairly determine ability-to-pay and handle modifications.
  • Impact on non-custodial parents: Parents already struggling with current support payments may face additional financial liability, while some may argue adult children should pursue their own financial independence and resources.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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