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HB 2443

Child Custody and Support - As enacted, specifies that a parent's obligation for the support of a child does not continue after the child reaches 19 unless the child is handicapped or disabled. - Amends TCA Title 34, Chapter 1; Title 36, Chapter 5 and Title 37, Chapter 1.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Iris Rudder

Tennessee bill terminates parental child support at age 19 except for disabled children, potentially reducing family financial obligations but shifting costs to other support systems.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 870
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Bill Summary · HB 2443

Legislative bill overview

HB 2443 modifies Tennessee child support law by establishing age 19 as the automatic termination point for parental support obligations, with an exception for children who are handicapped or disabled. The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee code governing child custody, support, and family law matters.

Why is this important

This change could significantly affect financial planning for families, particularly those with children approaching adulthood, and potentially shifts costs to other social support systems for young adults aging out of support. It also has direct implications for disabled young adults whose parents may continue obligations beyond typical support ages.

Potential points of contention

  • Age cutoff vs. educational pursuits: The bill sets a hard age 19 limit, which could create hardship for children still in high school or pursuing post-secondary education that extends beyond that age, unlike some states that allow support through college completion
  • Definition and proof of disability: The exception for "handicapped or disabled" children lacks specificity about what qualifies, potentially creating disputes over burden of proof and standards for determining eligibility
  • Economic impact on young adults: Eliminating support at 19 could increase financial instability for vulnerable young people and potentially increase demand on public assistance programs, foster care aging-out services, and higher education funding

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

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